Saudi Arabia marks 100 days to AFC Asian Cup 2027 kickoff

The Local Organizing Committee for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 has confirmed the Kingdom’s readiness to host the tournament, as the 100-day countdown begins for the competition set to kick off on January 7, 2027. This will be the first edition of the Asian Cup held in Saudi Arabia.

The committee stated that preparations have entered the operational phase, with ongoing organizational work and facility upgrades in the host cities and stadiums, as the country prepares to welcome 24 teams competing for the title.

AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said: “As we approach the largest edition in Asian Cup history, we extend our gratitude to the Kingdom’s leadership, government, the Local Organizing Committee, and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for their efforts in hosting the tournament. With 100 days remaining until Asia’s biggest football celebration, this milestone confirms that the Kingdom is on track to deliver an unprecedented edition to the highest standards, from the quality of stadiums and facilities to providing an outstanding experience for fans.” He expressed confidence that all preparations would be completed to the highest standard by January, ensuring Saudi Arabia is fully ready to host this major football event.

Mai Al-Helabi, CEO of the Local Organizing Committee, said that all preparations are coming together as the countdown begins, with work on the eight stadiums progressing according to plan. More than 50 entities are collaborating to ensure an exceptional experience for fans, from their arrival to their departure, reflecting Saudi hospitality at its core.

She added: “The scale of preparations reflects our ambitions for this tournament and the Kingdom’s capabilities in organizing major sporting events. We see this in action today in Jeddah, where Saudi Arabia is currently hosting the Gulf Cup 27, adding to its track record of staging major football events.”

In the coming period, a series of initiatives and accompanying events will be launched in the lead-up to the tournament. These include a film highlighting key milestones in the 100 days before kickoff, the unveiling of the official mascot, the launch of the tournament’s official sound identity, and several other initiatives.