The draw for the 24-team 2027 AFC Asian Cup was originally scheduled for Saturday, but has been moved to May 9.
Published April 15, 2026
The draw for the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has been rescheduled for May 9 in Riyadh, as regional sporting events are disrupted by the US and Israel’s war against Iran.
The raffle, originally scheduled for last Saturday, will be held in Diriyah’s historic At-Turaif district. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Wednesday that the postponement was made to ensure the full participation of all key stakeholders and member associations.
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Due to the war, which began on February 28, many sporting events in the region have been postponed or canceled.
Saudi Arabia is scheduled to host the 24-team quadrennial continental championship for the first time from January 7th to February 5th. 23 of the 24 teams have already been decided, and the qualifying countries will be divided into six groups of four each.
The final spot will be decided on June 4, when Lebanon plays Yemen in the play-offs.
Defending champions Qatar have already qualified for the final, along with four-time champions Japan, fellow World Cup participants South Korea, Iran, Jordan, Australia and Uzbekistan.
