Asian Cup Draw Delayed Until May Amid Middle East Tensions

The event, initially planned for 11 April, is now due to take place in the historic At-Turaif District in Diriyah. The AFC explained that the delay ensures complete involvement from all essential stakeholders and member associations.

Various sports fixtures in the region have been put on hold or scrapped after rising conflicts sparked by US and Israeli attacks on Iran during the previous month.

Saudi Arabia will host the 24-team tournament, which occurs every four years, for the inaugural time from 7 January to 5 February. As 23 of the 24 participants are already set, the draw will organise the qualified countries into six groups of four.

The remaining qualification slot will be settled on 4 June through a play-off match between Lebanon and Yemen. Current title holders Qatar have booked their spot in the finals, joined by four-time champions Japan plus other World Cup entrants such as South Korea, Iran, Jordan, Australia and Uzbekistan.