KUALA LUMPUR: Preparations for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia remain on track, the tournament's local organising committee (LOC) said, pushing back against speculation over a potential postponement.
In a statement issued from Riyadh, the LOC said preparations for the tournament, scheduled for Jan 7-Feb 5, are proceeding as planned in close coordination with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
The clarification comes after AFC president Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa raised doubts about the timeline.
Speaking to reporters in Zurich, Shaikh Salman said the continental body has not ruled out postponing the tournament by 12 months due to regional tensions.
"We are in no rush to make a decision regarding the Asian Cup scheduled for next January in Saudi Arabia," Shaikh Salman said.
"We can wait until the end of November, and the situation may change very quickly in the region. If we need to make a decision then we will, but we could move back a year to 2028 if we need to.
"But at the moment we are monitoring the situation and everything is on schedule."
His comments left Asian football stakeholders seeking clarity after the AFC administration initially adopted a wait-and-see stance.
Timesport reported on Monday that AFC general secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul said the continental body was monitoring developments closely.
Moving to address the uncertainty, Saudi organisers said work across all sectors remains on schedule.
"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.
"The focus remains on delivering a world-class tournament experience for participating teams, fans and media from across Asia, while bringing the continent together through football."
The LOC added that while it continues to track external events, its commitment to hosting the 24-nation tournament remains unchanged.
"The LOC remains committed to keeping preparations on track and ensuring the necessary resources are in place to deliver a tournament that reflects Saudi Arabia's ambitions and standards as a host," the statement said.
"At the same time, it will continue to monitor developments relevant to the tournament and ensure the appropriate conditions are in place for its successful delivery."
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