Saudi Arabia wins rights to host AFC Asian Cup 2027
RIYADH, February 1, 2023
Saudi Arabia has clinched the hosting rights for AFC Asian Cup 2027, the most prestigious men's football tournament in Asia, beating four other nations - Iran, Uzbekistan, China and Qatar. It will be the first time that the tournament will be held in the kingdom.
The announcement comes after the 33rd AFC Congress held in Manama, Bahrain today (February 1).
The tournament will feature the most exciting talent from across Asia, with the qualifying phase to commence in October 2023.
As the host, Saudi Arabia has pledged to focus on:
*Establishing programs to collaborate with all AFC Member Associations to create an equal playing field with new opportunities for all.
*Supporting the development of youth football, bringing the next generation of talent into the game.
Saudi Arabia have experienced immense success over the years, being crowned champions on three occasions (1984, 1988, 1996).
Following the decision, Prince Abdul Aziz bin Turki Al Faisal, Minister of Sport and Chairman of the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee, said: "We are humbled and honored to be hosting the AFC Asian Cup 2027. We are committed to not only hosting a great tournament that will be memorable for all fans but also to developing and growing the game across Asia through offering new platforms for exchanges and access to new opportunities."
"Hosting major sports events, and football in specific plays an integral part in our country's transformative Vision 2030 to increase participation. This tournament will inspire young boys and girls across the country to participate in sports and dream of representing their country one day," he added.
Lauding everyone for their support in the bid, Prince Abdul said: "Saudi football fans have been strong supporters of the bid from the start, and I am confident that with their passion for football and unique hospitality, they will help make the AFC Asian Cup 2027 an exceptional one."
The 33rd AFC Congress received a presentation on Saudi Arabia's bid to host the tournament in 2027.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal led the presentation as he welcomed delegates from across Asia and highlighted the full readiness of the Kingdom to host the AFC Asian Cup with distinction.
The presentation also featured Ibrahim Alkassim, General Secretary of SAFF, and Abduljawad. They both delivered a clear vision of the legacy that the tournament would provide in contributing to the growth and progress of football in Asia.
Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), thanking King Salman and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman for their unconditional support, said: "We are a country bound by a love for football, and the AFC Asian Cup is a championship that holds immense significance for us. It is the tournament where Saudi football experienced its finest moments in."
"We want to thank all AFC Member Associations for their trust and hope to justify their choice by delivering the most memorable edition of this flagship competition. We look forward to welcoming fans from across the continent to experience our passion for the beautiful game, in addition to the diverse cultures and cities our beautiful country has to offer," he added.
On the historic moment, Abduljawad, said: "It is a dream come true for Saudi Arabia. Our fans will create an exceptional atmosphere as they have always done over the years. I am confident visitors from across Asia will experience the warm welcome of Saudi hospitality."
"The excitement has already begun, and we are all preparing for a memorable tournament," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
