The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Tuesday that the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has been postponed by nearly a year due to regional developments that have caused significant logistical challenges and travel disruptions.

Axar.az reports, citing Al Arabia, that the tournament, originally scheduled to take place from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will instead be held from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, the AFC said in a statement.

The decision followed extensive discussions with the tournament’s Local Organizing Committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF).

The AFC said its Asian Cup Organizing Committee approved the postponement in light of “exceptional circumstances” arising from developments in the region, which have complicated preparations for the competition.

It said the decision was necessary to safeguard the interests of participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders.

The revised dates will be submitted to FIFA for approval.

The AFC praised Saudi football authorities for their commitment to delivering a world-class tournament and said it would continue working with participating associations, sponsors, broadcasters and other partners to minimize the impact of the delay.