China has given up its rights to host the 2023 AFC Asian Cup due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, the Asian Football Confederation announced on Saturday.
The event - held every four years - was due to take place from June 16 to July 16 next year, featuring 24 national teams from across the continent.
It was also set to be held in 10 different Chinese cities.
"The AFC acknowledges the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the relinquishment by China PR of its hosting rights," an AFC statement read.
"The AFC worked closely with the CFA and the AFC Asian Cup China 2023 Local Organising Committee during the preparations and several milestones were achieved, including the launch of the tournament logo and the unveiling of the newly completed Shanghai Pudong Football Stadium last year.
"The AFC appreciates that China PR, the CFA and the AFC Asian Cup China 2023 LOC have made this very difficult but necessary decision in the collective interests of the AFC Asian Cup 2023, which has also provided the AFC the required time to assess the situation regarding the hosting of the AFC Asian Cup 2023.
"The AFC will continue to work closely with its commercial partners and stakeholders to chart the course forward and remains grateful to them for their understanding and support during this period."
A replacement host nation is yet to be determined.
The decision comes amid a number of other sporting event cancellations in the country, including football's East Asian Championships and the multi-sport Asian Games.
Formula 1 also hasn't raced in China since 2019.
China is continuing to implement a COVID-zero policy which has seen Shanghai in lockdown for over a month, as well as strict public health measures in Beijing.
