Asian Cup Saudi Arabia Preparations on Track Despite Security Concerns
Local organisers say work on venues and services is moving ahead as planned, even as talk of a 2028 delay grows.
Asian Cup – (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – Plans for the Asian Cup Saudi Arabia are still moving forward, according to local organisers. They confirmed on Friday that the tournament is set to start on January 7 and end on February 5 next year.
The news comes at a difficult time. Last Saturday, a strike on Riyadh’s international airport killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300. The Houthi movement in Yemen claimed responsibility. It was the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in over ten years.
Earlier this week, Asian football chief Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said the event could be pushed back to 2028 if needed. His comments raised questions about the future of the tournament.
The local organising committee has now responded. In a statement, it said all work is progressing according to the approved schedule. This includes stadiums, facilities and support services.
The committee also said it will keep watching developments that may affect the event. It promised to make sure the right conditions are in place for a successful tournament.
The attack has already changed some sports plans in the kingdom. The Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition has been moved from October to December.
Football’s world governing body, Fifa, and the Saudi Esports Federation have also acted. On Thursday, they postponed the FIFAe Finals 2026 to a later date that has not been announced.
For now, the organisers are sending a clear message of confidence. They want fans, teams and partners to know the original dates still stand.
However, the situation remains uncertain. Much will depend on security in the coming weeks and on what Asian football officials decide. Fans across the continent will be watching closely as the January start date gets nearer.
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