FIFAe Finals Postponed After Attack in Saudi Arabia Disrupts Sporting Calendar

FIFA and the Saudi Esports Federation have postponed the FIFAe Finals 2026, which were scheduled to be held in Jeddah from October 16 to 25, following an attack on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.

The postponement comes amid heightened security concerns after the October 10 attack on the airport in the Saudi capital. The incident reportedly killed 12 people and injured 309 others. Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the strike, described as one of the deadliest attacks in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade.

In a statement, the organisers said the decision followed an assessment of recent developments in the region and their impact on the logistical arrangements required to stage the tournament.

Further announcements regarding the FIFAe Finals will be made in due course, the statement added.

FIFA also expressed its appreciation to Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Esports Federation for their support and cooperation in preparing for the tournament, acknowledging the kingdom’s successful hosting of previous editions.

The postponement adds to the disruption affecting major sporting events in Saudi Arabia. The Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition has also been rescheduled to December 27–30, 2026, due to logistical challenges following the attack.

Meanwhile, the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, could be postponed by a year amid concerns following missile attacks in Riyadh. The continental football tournament is currently scheduled to begin on January 7, 2027, with matches planned across Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.

A delay to the Asian Cup could affect participating teams’ preparations, venue arrangements and the wider international football calendar. However, a year-long postponement has not been confirmed.

The latest developments highlight the challenges facing organisers of international sporting events amid regional instability. FIFA has yet to announce revised dates for the FIFAe Finals, leaving participating players and teams awaiting further details.