Asian Tour Weighs Saudi International Finale Amid Unrest

The Asian Tour says it is weighing whether to hold its season-ending event in Saudi Arabia as planned, citing regional safety concerns weeks before the tournament is set to begin.

What did the Asian Tour say about the Saudi International?

The PIF Saudi International is scheduled to close the Asian Tour's 2026 season at Riyadh Golf Club from November 18-21, as it has in recent years. In a statement to Reuters, an Asian Tour spokesperson said the tour is "closely monitoring the situation in Saudi Arabia" alongside partner Golf Saudi, pointing to political tension and recent attacks on Riyadh's international airport. The tour said any schedule changes would be announced once a decision is made, calling player, fan and staff safety its top priority.

Why does the finale matter so much to the Asian Tour?

The Saudi International is the Asian Tour's most important date on the calendar as its season finale. It comes after a difficult year for the circuit, which canceled its International Series following the Public Investment Fund's withdrawal from the sport. Asian Tour chief executive Cho Minn Thant has separately said losing the tour's strategic partnership with LIV Golf, also PIF-backed, was costly for the circuit.