RIYADH: Preparations for the Asian Cup remain on schedule for the tournament to take place in Saudi Arabia early next year, local organisers said on Friday, despite uncertainty surrounding sporting events in the kingdom following recent attacks.
A strike on Riyadh’s international airport on Saturday killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300, according to the report. Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for what was described as the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade.
Asian Football Confederation chief Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said earlier this week that postponing the tournament until 2028 remained a possibility if necessary. However, the local organising committee (LOC) said it was continuing to work towards the original schedule of January 7 to February 5.
“Preparations across all organisational and operational areas are progressing according to the approved schedule, including work on venues, facilities and supporting services,” the LOC said in a statement.
The committee added that it would continue monitoring developments related to the tournament and ensure the necessary conditions were in place for its successful delivery.
Security Concerns Affect Saudi Sporting Calendar
Recent attacks have already disrupted Saudi Arabia’s sporting calendar, with organisers postponing or rescheduling major events.
The Six Kings Slam exhibition tennis tournament has been moved from October to December.
Meanwhile, FIFA and the Saudi Esports Federation announced on Thursday that the FIFAe Finals 2026 had been postponed until an unspecified future date.
Despite the changes to other events, Asian Cup organisers maintain that preparations are proceeding according to the approved timetable. The tournament’s schedule remains January 7 to February 5, subject to further developments.
