2027 Asian Cup preparations on track as AFC weighs options

Saudi organizers say preparations for the 2027 Asian Cup remain on schedule, while the Asian Football Confederation has left open the possibility of moving the tournament to 2028 as it monitors security conditions in the region. The Saudi Local Organising Committee said preparations were progressing according to the approved timetable and that it was coordinating with the AFC. The tournament is scheduled to run from Jan. 7 to Feb. 5, 2027. The committee said work covers organizational and operational areas, including venues, facilities and supporting services, and that it would continue monitoring developments relevant to the competition. AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said the confederation could wait until the end of November before deciding whether a change is needed. He said the event could be moved back a year to 2028 if necessary. No change to the schedule has been announced, and his remarks described a possible option rather than a decision to postpone. The statements come amid security concerns following reported attacks in Saudi Arabia. South Korea’s Professional Footballers Association president Lee Keunho said the safety of players and fans was a...