In view of the ongoing crises in Saudi Arabia, FIFA and the Saudi Esports Federation have jointly decided to postpone the Finals 2026, scheduled in Jeddah from 16 October to 25 October.
“The decision follows an assessment of recent developments in the region and their impact on the logistical arrangements required to stage the tournament,” the organisers of the event said in a statement.
“FIFA expressed its appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Esports Federation for their support and cooperation in preparations for the FIFAe Finals 2026, building on Saudi Arabia’s successful hosting of previous editions of the tournament,” the statement further read.
Citing the October 10th attack on Riyadh Airport, the Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition event has also been postponed to December 27-30 owing to logistical challenges.
Furthermore, reports reveal the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia could be postponed by a year as the organisers suggested the rescheduling following missile attacks in Riyadh. The continental tournament is set to begin on January 7 next year across venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.
The rescheduling was attributed to the “logistical considerations”.
Japan and Brazil withdrew their Esports teams on Saturday after assessing the situation in the host country.
The security uncertainty has cast a shadow over sporting events in the kingdom.