Football Australia statement on rescheduling of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™

Football Australia has been notified by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) of its decision to reschedule the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

Football Australia has been closely monitoring the situation in Saudi Arabia and supports the AFC’s decision, which has been made in the interest of all participating teams, officials and supporters.

The tournament is now proposed to be held from 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028, subject to FIFA approval.

The CommBank Socceroos’ matches away to Qatar and Jordan in this November FIFA Men’s International Window will proceed as scheduled, with Football Australia’s experienced security team continuing to monitor developments and carry out risk assessments.

Australia was drawn in Group D alongside Singapore, Iraq and Tajikistan. Further details on the rescheduled tournament, including the match schedule, will be confirmed by the AFC.

It will be the CommBank Socceroos’ sixth AFC Asian Cup appearance, following their tournament debut in 2007 and their triumph as hosts in 2015.

Quotes attributable to Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac:

“Football Australia supports the AFC’s decision to reschedule the AFC Asian Cup. The safety and wellbeing of players, staff and fans come first. We acknowledge the commitment of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) to delivering a world-class tournament. We look forward to the CommBank Socceroos competing in the rescheduled tournament against Asia’s best nations.”

Quotes attributable to Football Australia CEO Martin Kugeler:

“We have remained in dialogue with the AFC and we appreciate the clarity this decision provides for us and all participating nations. Our experienced security team, guided by our Head of Security, has been closely monitoring developments, and risk assessment will remain a key part of our planning ahead of the rescheduled tournament.”

Quotes attributable to Football Australia Executive Director of Football Heather Garriock:

“While the change in dates will require adjustments to our planning, our focus remains on ensuring the CommBank Socceroos are fully prepared to compete for the AFC Asian Cup. The new dates also mean our FIFA World Cup 2030™ qualifying campaign, which begins in September 2027, will now come before the tournament, and we will adapt our preparations accordingly.”