Riyadh: The Local Organising Committee for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia has intensified its training programs for volunteers in preparation for the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. This initiative represents the final phase of readiness for the tournament, which will take place in the Kingdom from January 6 to 24, hosting 16 Asian national teams in Riyadh and Jeddah.
According to Saudi Press Agency, training sessions have been conducted at four venues: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium, Al-Shabab Club Stadium in Riyadh, Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium, and the auxiliary field at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. These sessions are designed to enhance operational readiness, familiarize volunteers with the facilities, and conduct match-day simulations, following their recent completion of theoretical courses.
More than 600 volunteers have been refining their practical skills, including mastering their roles, understanding stadium navigation routes, and learning team coordination protocols to ensure efficient operations during the event. The training also included tours of fan zones, team and media areas, and support services, ensuring that volunteers are well-prepared for a seamless operation.
To maintain high motivation levels, the committee introduced the Volunteer Passport incentive, a document that gets stamped for each successfully completed task. This initiative aims to foster a sense of belonging and long-term commitment among participants, helping them build a volunteering portfolio leading up to the 2027 Asian Cup finale.
The Local Organising Committee is enhancing its volunteering program by incorporating global best practices and developing young Saudi talent. Volunteers are crucial in executing major sporting events and contributing to a vibrant society, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
The 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia is a significant step toward hosting the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. It acts as a practical testing ground for operational and staffing readiness while enhancing national skills in managing top-tier continental and international tournaments.
