Saudi sports minister inaugurates AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 in Jeddah

SPA

Jeddah, January 7, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal inaugurated the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 on Tuesday evening in Jeddah, in the presence of Governor of Jeddah Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, according to a statement.

The opening ceremony was held at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, marking the start of the seventh edition of the tournament, which Saudi Arabia is hosting from January 6 to 24, the statement said.

The ceremony was attended by Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al-Misehal, alongside heads and representatives of Asian football associations and officials from the Local Organizing Committee for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, it added.

The statement quoted the minister as saying the Kingdom’s hosting reflects the support the sports sector receives from the leadership and strengthens Saudi Arabia’s presence as a host of continental and international sporting events.

He said the tournament is part of preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, aimed at delivering an organisational and sporting experience for participating teams and fans, the statement said.