Asian Cup Draw Postponed to May 9 Amidst US-Israel War on Iran

AI Summary

The draw for the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has been rescheduled to May 9 due to the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, which has disrupted regional sporting events.

The 2027 Asian Cup draw in Saudi Arabia has been rescheduled for May 9 in Riyadh, owing to the US-Israel war on Iran that has impacted regional sporting events. The draw was initially set for last Saturday.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the postponement to ensure full participation of all key stakeholders and member associations. The event will take place at the historic At-Turaif District in Diriyah.

Several sporting events in the region have been postponed or cancelled due to the war, which began on February 28. Saudi Arabia will host the 24-team, quadrennial continental championship from January 7 to February 5, 2027.

With 23 of the 24 teams already confirmed, the draw will divide the qualified nations into six groups of four. The final qualification spot will be decided on June 4 in a playoff between Lebanon and Yemen.

Defending champions Qatar, along with four-time winners Japan and fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea, Iran, Jordan, Australia, and Uzbekistan, have already secured their places in the finals.