Houthi attacks raise doubts over Saudi Arabia's Asian Cup

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 06:03 · Archive

Houthi rebel attacks on Riyadh's airport have prompted concerns about whether next January's Asian Cup will proceed as scheduled.

Houthi rebel attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh over the weekend killed at least 14 people and wounded more than 300, according to Saudi officials. The attacks have prompted fresh concerns about whether the Asian Cup, scheduled to kick off on 7 January, will proceed in Saudi Arabia as planned.

Football Australia said it is closely monitoring developments and that the safety and wellbeing of players, staff and supporters remains paramount. The Asian Football Confederation has not responded to requests about whether contingency plans are in place.

If the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels does not ease over the coming months, the tournament could be pushed back by 12 months to January 2028. This would have consequences for several federations, including Australia, whose coach Tony Popovic has a contract with Football Australia until the 2027 Asian Cup, with unclear implications if the tournament is delayed.

How it is being reported

• Saudi attacks raise fresh concerns over Asian CupThe Houthi rebel attacks on Saudi Arabia's main airport have cast fresh doubt on the likelihood of next year's Asian Cup going ahead as scheduled.The West Australian · 13 Oct, 05:38
• Saudi attacks raise fresh concerns over Asian CupThe Houthi rebel attacks on Saudi Arabia's main airport have cast fresh doubt on the likelihood of next year's Asian Cup going ahead as scheduled.Perth Now · 13 Oct, 05:37

In this story: Saudi Arabia · Yemen · Houthis · Football Australia · Asian Football Confederation · Tony Popovic

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