Huanglong Sports Centre. [Photo/Hangzhou News]

Hangzhou in Zhejiang province is stepping up preparations to host the 2027 AFC U20 Asian Cup, following a four-day inspection by a joint delegation from the Asian Football Confederation and the Chinese Football Association.

The delegation has inspected four proposed stadiums — Huanglong Sports Center, Shangcheng Sports Center Stadium, Xiaoshan Sports Center Gymnasium, and Linping Sports Center — which are expected to host 31 matches. It has also reviewed 10 training grounds, examining pitches, lighting, functional facilities, and broadcast arrangements.

Twelve proposed official hotels have been evaluated on accommodation, catering, meeting facilities, fitness services, and transportation to ensure suitable conditions for participating teams and officials.

The inspection team generally has recognized Hangzhou's facilities, training arrangements, and hospitality services, while providing recommendations on venue upgrades and supporting facilities. Hangzhou will further refine its preparations based on the feedback.

China has announced Hangzhou as a host city for the tournament in December 2025. With the competition scheduled to open in March 2027, preparations are underway across venues, training grounds, and hospitality services.

The tournament will also serve as a pathway to the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Apart from co-host Uzbekistan, the top three teams will qualify for the World Cup, adding further significance to the competition.