The two-year countdown to the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 has officially begun, with the tournament scheduled to take place from January 7 to February 5, 2027.
This 19th edition of Asia's premier football competition will see the continent's top 24 national teams competing across three Saudi cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar—offering fans a thrilling spectacle in world-class venues.
The dates and venues of Saudi Arabia’s first prime event ahead of 2034 World Cup are all set. (Photo courtesy: The Asian Football Confederation)
Stadiums Across Three Cities
The tournament will leverage Saudi Arabia's rapidly growing football infrastructure. A total of five stadiums in Riyadh will host matches:
King Fahd Sports City Stadium
King Saud University Stadium
Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud University Stadium
Kingdom Arena
Al Shabab Stadium
In Jeddah, the iconic King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium will serve as key venues. Additionally, Al Khobar will unveil a state-of-the-art new stadium, underlining Saudi Arabia's commitment to creating an exceptional football experience for players and fans alike.
A New Chapter for Asian Football
This announcement follows the unprecedented success of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, which set new benchmarks for excellence. Mariano V. Araneta Jr., Chairperson of the Organising Committee for AFC Asian Cup, emphasized the significance of the 2027 edition during the recent OCAC meeting in Riyadh.
“The record-setting AFC Asian Cup™ in Qatar exceeded all expectations, setting a benchmark for future editions. We are confident that Saudi Arabia, with its world-class infrastructure and warm hospitality, will elevate the tournament to even greater heights,” Araneta said.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision for 2027
The tournament marks a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ambition to establish itself as a global hub for major sporting events. Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, highlighted the strategic importance of the event.
“Confirming the dates and selecting the stadiums is a crucial step in our journey. This announcement reflects our collaboration with the AFC and our dedication to delivering an exceptional tournament that embodies the aspirations of the entire Asian continent,” Al Misehal said.
He also reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring the venues meet the highest international standards, promising an unforgettable experience for players and fans.
Path to Qualification
While 18 teams have already secured their places, the remaining six spots will be decided in the Qualifiers Final Round, set to begin in March 2025. Six groups of four teams will battle for the final berths, further intensifying the competition ahead of the tournament.
A Tournament to Remember
With the spotlight firmly on Saudi Arabia, the AFC Asian Cup 2027™ is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing not just top-tier football but also the Kingdom’s cultural richness and hospitality. As the countdown continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Asian football.
The AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ will undoubtedly serve as a testament to the region's growing influence in the global sporting arena. Fans and players alike can look forward to a tournament that combines world-class competition with a uniquely Saudi Arabian flavor.
A view on the stadiums and their capacity. (via Saudi 2027 official X account)
AFC Asian Cup 2027 kicks off Jan 7 in Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar. Top 24 teams to compete in 8 world-class stadiums across 3 Saudi cities.