The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) announced on Thursday the postponement of the 2026 FIFA Esports World Cup finals against the backdrop of security developments in the region. The competition was scheduled to take place in the Saudi city of Jeddah from October 16 to 25.
In a statement published on the 'X' platform, FIFA said the decision came following an assessment of regional developments and their impact on the logistical arrangements required to organize the tournament. It added that it appreciates the support of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Esports Federation and their cooperation during preparations, praising the Kingdom's experience in hosting previous editions of the tournament.
The statement indicated that further details regarding the new date for the finals will be announced in due course. Japan and Brazil withdrew their national esports teams on Saturday following a review of the security situation in the host country.
The repercussions of the security developments extended to other sporting events in Saudi Arabia, as the third edition of the 'Six Kings' tennis championship, scheduled for October 21-24, was postponed to December 27-30 next year. In golf, the Asian Tour confirmed it continues to monitor the situation before hosting the 'Saudi International' in Riyadh next month.
Regarding football, the 2027 Asian Cup remains scheduled in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, 2027, at stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Khobar, amid anticipation of developments in the security situation. The Houthis have been launching attacks on Saudi airports and oil facilities since last week.
Source: Anadolu Agency
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