Jeddah, 15 October, 2026 (Kamran Raja): FIFA and the Saudi Esports Federation have postponed the FIFAe Finals 2026, which were scheduled to take place in Jeddah from October 16 to 25, following recent attacks in Saudi Arabia and concerns over the regional security situation. Organisers announced the decision on Thursday, saying it followed an assessment of recent developments and their impact on the logistical arrangements required to stage the international esports tournament. They added that further announcements regarding the rescheduled event would be made in due course. The postponement came after a strike on Riyadh’s international airport on Saturday reportedly killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, with Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claiming responsibility. Japan and Brazil had already withdrawn their esports teams on Saturday after assessing the security situation in the host country. The uncertainty has also raised concerns about other major sporting events scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia. The Six Kings Slam exhibition tennis tournament was moved from October to December, while golf’s Asian Tour said it was monitoring developments ahead of next month’s Saudi International in Riyadh. Meanwhile, the Asian Football Confederation has said it remains open to postponing the Asian Cup until 2028 if necessary. The continental tournament is currently scheduled to begin on January 7 next year, with matches planned in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar. The postponement of the FIFAe Finals highlights the growing impact of regional security concerns on international sporting events hosted by Saudi Arabia.