Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in its rich history, Saudi Arabia has been awarded the hosting rights for the stage from Asia most prestigious men’s national team tournament: the AFC Asian Cup™ 2027 by the 33rd AFC Congress in Manama, Bahrain Today, Wednesday, February 1.
Saudi Arabia they have experienced immense success over the years, being crowned champions three times (1984, 1988, 1996).
From left to right, AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa; Sports Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Aziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, and SAFF President Yasser Al-Misehal (PRNewsfoto/Saudi Arabian Football Federation)
Following the decision, HRH the Prince Abdul Aziz bin Turki Al-FaisalMinister of Sports and Chairman of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said: “We are humbled and honored to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup™. We are committed to not only hosting a great tournament that will be memorable for all the fans, but also to develop and grow the game in Asia by offering new exchange platforms and access to new opportunities. The organization of large sporting events and soccer in specific plays are an integral part of the transformative Vision 2030 of our country to increase participation. I have no doubt that this tournament will inspire boys and girls across the country to get involved in sports and dream of representing their country one day.
I want to thank everyone involved in the bid over the years who helped bring this historic moment to life. Saudi Arabia Football fans have strongly supported the bid from the very beginning and I am confident that with their passion for football and unique hospitality they will help make the AFC Asian Cup™ 2027 exceptional.”
Yasser Al Misehalpresident of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), also expressed his thanks to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and HRH the Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman for their unconditional support for the candidacy. Al Misehal said: “We are a country united by the love of football, and the AFC Asian Cup™ is a championship that holds immense importance for us. It is the tournament where Saudi football experienced its best moments. We want to thank all AFC Member Associations for their trust and hope to justify their choice by offering the most memorable edition of this flagship competition. We look forward to welcoming fans 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.”
Commenting on the historic moment, former Saudi Arabia star and two-time AFC Asian Cup™ champion Mohamed Abduljawad said: “It’s a dream come true to welcome the AFC Asian Cup™. AFC to Saudi Arabia. Our fans will create an exceptional atmosphere as they have always done over the years. I trust that visitors from all over the world Asia you will experience the warm welcome of Saudi hospitality. The excitement has already begun and we are all preparing for a memorable tournament.”
The tournament will feature the most exciting talent from around Asiawith qualifying to start in October 2023.
As a host, Saudi Arabia has committed to focus on:
- Establish programs to collaborate with all AFC member associations to create a level playing field with new opportunities for all.
- Support the development of youth soccer, bringing the next generation of talent into the game.
the 33rdrd The AFC Congress received a presentation on Saudi Arabia bid to host the tournament in 2027. His Royal Highness The Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal led the presentation while welcoming delegates from all over Asia and highlighted the Kingdom’s full readiness to host the AFC Asian Cup™ with distinction.
The presentation also featured Mr. Ibrahim AlkasimSAFF General Secretary and former Saudi national team player mohamed abduljawad. Both provided a clear vision of the legacy the tournament would provide by contributing to the growth and progress of football in Asia.
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1994077/Saudi_Arabian_Football_Federation.jpg
SOURCE Saudi Arabian Football Federation
