Saudi Arabia sole bidder to host 2027 Asian Cup after India exit

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 05 (AFP): Saudi Arabia on Monday became the sole bidder to host the 2027 Asian Cup after India withdrew its bid.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said in a statement that the All India Football Federation had pulled out from the selection.

The statement did not provide any reasons for India's decision.

In October the AFC's executive committee shortlisted India and Saudi Arabia as potential hosts.

"The Asian Football Confederation has been officially notified by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) of their decision to withdraw their bid from the AFC Asian Cup 2027 host selection process," the regional body said Monday without elaborating.

Three-time champions Saudi Arabia will now probably host their first AFC Asian Cup.