King Fahd Sports City Stadium in Riyadh will host the opening and closing matches of the 2027 Asian Cup, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) confirmed on Monday. The tournament, scheduled from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will serve as a major showcase ahead of Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
“The King Fahd Sports City Stadium… will provide the backdrop for both the eagerly anticipated Final as well as the opening match, featuring hosts and three-time Asian champions Saudi Arabia,” the AFC said in a statement issued in Kuala Lumpur. The stadium, popularly known as “The Tent” for its roof inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, has a capacity of over 70,000 spectators.
In addition to the opening and final matches, the venue will host four group stage games, a round of 16 match, and a quarter-final tie, making it the largest of the eight stadiums selected for the tournament. Other matches will take place in Jeddah and Al Khobar, with detailed fixtures and kick-off times to be announced at the AFC’s final draw on April 11 in Riyadh.
Originally slated for 2023 in China, the tournament was relocated due to Covid-related restrictions, while Qatar, host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, staged and won the Asian Cup in 2025. The announcement underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a regional hub for major international football events.