Uzbekistan to Host 2027 AFC U-17 Asian Cup

Uzbekistan has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2027 AFC U-17 Asian Cup, according to an announcement by the Uzbekistan Football Association following a meeting of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee. The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 12 to 29, 2027.

The AFC stated that the transfer of hosting rights to Uzbekistan was part of a broader review of the competition calendar and the allocation of youth tournaments among its member associations. Originally, Saudi Arabia was selected in May 2025 to host three consecutive U-17 Asian Cups in 2026, 2027, and 2028. The first of these tournaments was held in Jeddah in May 2026.

While the AFC did not provide specific reasons for the change regarding the 2027 edition, Saudi Arabia is now slated to host the 2029 AFC U-17 Asian Cup. This reshuffling also affects other youth tournaments, with Japan being awarded the hosting rights for the 2028 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. This tournament will double as Asia's qualifying event for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Several nations, including Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, and Uzbekistan, had submitted bids for the U-23 tournament, but the United Arab Emirates withdrew its bid earlier. The AFC noted that all final candidates met the minimum hosting requirements. Japan's selection was attributed to its modern infrastructure, low operational risks, regional diversity, and the AFC's rotation policy for major continental events. Uzbekistan's recent success, including winning the 2025 U-17 continental title, likely bolstered its bid.