1. China's inability to commit to hosting the Asia Cup in a fully open manner
中国组委会难以对亚洲杯按完全开放模式办赛作出承诺和安排
The main reason for the cancellation of the 2023 Asia Cup in China is that the Chinese organizing committee and the Chinese Football Association stated that it is difficult for them to make commitments and arrangements to host the Asia Cup in a fully open manner as required by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). They were unable to meet the strict requirements set by the AFC. This decision was made in consideration of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it presents for hosting a large-scale international sporting event.
2. China's decision to relinquish hosting rights
中国决定放弃举办权
On May 14, 2022, the Chinese Football Association officially informed the AFC that China is unable to host the 2023 Asia Cup and has decided to relinquish the hosting rights. This decision was made in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the inability to fulfill the AFC's requirement for a fully open tournament. The Chinese Football Association, in consultation with the organizing committee, determined that it was not feasible to proceed with the Asia Cup under the current circumstances.
3. AFC's belief that China cannot host in a fully open manner
亚足联认为中国无法以完全开放的方式举办
According to the AFC, the reason for canceling China's hosting rights is their belief that China cannot host the Asia Cup in a fully open manner. The AFC's requirement for a fully open tournament means that all matches should be accessible to fans, sponsors, media, and officials without any restrictions. It is likely that the AFC felt China's COVID-19 control measures and restrictions would still hinder the full participation and attendance of stakeholders, leading to their decision to cancel China's hosting rights.
4. Disappointment and mixed reactions from fans
球迷的失望和不同的反应
The cancellation of the 2023 Asia Cup in China has led to disappointment among football fans. Many fans were eagerly anticipating the tournament and had high expectations for China's hosting capabilities. The sudden announcement of the cancellation has sparked discussions and debates online. Some fans express their disappointment and believe that the Asia Cup should not be held in China or any other country until the pandemic is under control. Others understand the challenges posed by the pandemic and support the decision to cancel.
5. AFC's confirmation of the cancellation and search for a new host
亚足联确认取消并寻找新主办国
The AFC has officially confirmed the cancellation of the 2023 Asia Cup in China due to the impact of the pandemic. With the cancellation, the AFC will now begin the process of searching for a new host country. The decision on the new host country will be made after careful consideration of various factors, including the ability to meet the AFC's requirements, infrastructure, and readiness to host a major football tournament.
6. Impact of the pandemic on sporting events
疫情对体育赛事的影响
The cancellation of the 2023 Asia Cup in China is part of a larger trend of sporting events being postponed or canceled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the sports industry, leading to the rescheduling or cancellation of numerous tournaments and leagues around the world. The health and safety of players, officials, and spectators remain the top priority, and hosting an international tournament of such magnitude becomes challenging in the current circumstances.
In conclusion, the cancellation of the 2023 Asia Cup in China is primarily due to the difficulties faced by the Chinese organizing committee in committing to hosting the tournament in a fully open manner as required by the AFC. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions and challenges influenced this decision. The AFC believes that China cannot host the tournament in a manner that allows unrestricted access for all stakeholders. The cancellation has disappointed many fans, but they also understand the complexities of hosting a major tournament during a global pandemic. The AFC will now search for a new host country to ensure a successful and safe Asia Cup in the future.