Concerns about security in Asian Cup 2027

Concerns about security in Asian Cup 2027

According to Vnexpress.

Background

24 national teams will participate in the Asian Cup 2027, with matches to be held in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Al-Khobar. Of the 51 matches, 31 are to be played in Riyadh, including the opening and final matches. FIFPro and other international associations have expressed their concerns regarding the security of this tournament.

Why it matters

The Asian Cup 2027 is scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia, but recent security issues have raised serious questions over the security of the tournament. Recent missile and drone attacks have alarmed international football associations, with organizers feeling the need to prioritize security measures. Such concerns are important not only for players and fans, but for the entire football community.

Key points

• Concerns about security in Asian Cup 2027.
• This article focuses on security concerns in Saudi Arabia, the venue of the Asian Cup 2027, where recent attacks have put organizers on alert..
• The fear is there at all in Asian Cup 2027 - Báo VnExpress Sports.

Security concerns have increased regarding the Asian Cup to be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027. Since Saudi Arabia has been hit by missile attacks and drone strikes in recent days, international football associations and the media have called for security to be a priority. Saudi Arabia, which is hosting the Asian Cup, has currently become a matter of concern in terms of security at the global level.

On October 10, a missile attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, killing 13 and injuring more than 300. Riyadh, Jeddah and Al-Khobar are the three cities where the Asian Cup 2027 will be held, in which 24 national teams will participate. Of the 51 matches, 31 are to be played in Riyadh, including the opening and final matches.

Several international football associations, such as Australia, South Korea, Japan and Singapore, have said they are keeping a close eye on the situation and are in constant contact with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The International Federation of Professional Football Players (FIFPRO) also said that "the safety of players, fans and staff must be the top priority in the planning and conduct of the event."

Singapore captain Haris Harun said, "It is natural to be worried after seeing what is happening. Safety should always come first." The recent Asian Under-23 Championship held in January faced similar security concerns, but that tournament was conducted successfully.

However, the media believe that the Asian Cup will be held on a different level and will involve more fans and star players. "It is looking very difficult to organize the game in Saudi Arabia," an AFC official said.

AFC president Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa told a FIFA Council meeting that an official decision would be taken at the end of November. If the situation does not improve, it is likely that the Asian Cup will be postponed to 2028.

The Asian Cup 2023 was shifted from China to Qatar. Now the Asian Cup is to be organized in less than three months. The AFC's response is to ensure the safety of players and fans.

In addition, many players who play for various clubs in Europe will return to take part in the Asian Cup 2027. Of which about 20 players are returning from the German Bundesliga. Due to this, concerns about security are increasing in the clubs of Europe.

Japan have called up 28 players for October's FIFA Days, 22 of whom play in Europe. Japan is hoping to win the Asian Cup 2027, but this cannot be a priority if the safety of the players is not ensured. If the AFC organizes the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia given this situation, the Japan Football Association should consider its presence.

This is also an opportunity for the AFC as Saudi Arabia prepares for the 2034 World Cup. At the same time, AFC is also receiving large-scale financial assistance from Saudi Arabian companies.

What will happen next

Organizers will now need to tighten safety protocols, so that the Asian Cup 2027 can be held safely and successfully. Football associations of several countries have decided to monitor the situation and maintain communication with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). If security concerns persist, it could have a negative impact on the conduct of the tournament.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why have security concerns increased in Asian Cup 2027?

Security concerns have increased due to recent missile and drone attacks in Saudi Arabia.

Who has expressed concern about the security of Asian Cup 2027?

International football associations and the media have called for prioritizing security.

When will Asian Cup 2027 be held in Saudi Arabia?

Asian Cup 2027 will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027.

Are any steps being taken to ensure security at the Asian Cup 2027?

FIFPRO has said that the safety of players, fans and staff must be the top priority in the planning and conduct of the event.

Have there been security concerns in Saudi Arabia before?

Yes, there were security concerns at the recent Asian Under-23 Championship held in January.

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