The ongoing security volatility in Saudi Arabia has cast serious doubt on the kingdom's ability to host the 2027 Asian Cup as scheduled, according to Japan Football Association President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto. Speaking at the Asian Football Confederation’s extraordinary congress in Tokyo, Miyamoto suggested that holding the continental tournament safely under the current circumstances would prove to be a significant challenge.

Several high-profile sporting events in the country have already faced cancellation or postponement amid escalating attacks and regional instability. Following a deadly incident at Riyadh’s international airport, the Asian Tour's Saudi International golf event was postponed indefinitely, while the Urban World Championships were cancelled outright. Other disruptions include the rescheduling of the Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition and the postponement of the FIFAe Finals 2026 video game competition.

Despite these disruptions, the local organizing committee maintains that preparations for venues and supporting services are proceeding according to the approved schedule. However, Asian football leadership previously acknowledged that a postponement to 2028 remains a viable option if security conditions do not improve. The Asian Cup was originally pitched by the Saudi government as a critical precursor to hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034.

Source: www.aljazeera.com