FIFA Under-17 World Cup to proceed in Qatar despite US team withdrawal

FIFA has confirmed that the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup will proceed as scheduled in Qatar, beginning on November 19, despite the United States national team withdrawing from the competition. The global governing body stated on Thursday that its security assessments remain unchanged, and it expects the event to move forward without disruption.

FIFA Under-17 World Cup security status

The US Soccer Federation announced its decision to cancel the team's participation and pre-tournament camp earlier this week. According to reports, the federation cited the need to prioritize the well-being of players and staff in light of current circumstances. This decision follows an updated travel advisory issued by the US State Department last month, which urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Qatar due to potential risks of armed conflict, specifically referencing Houthi attacks on infrastructure in the region.

In response to the withdrawal, FIFA issued a statement emphasizing that the safety and security of all participants and fans remain paramount. The organization noted that it maintains close contact with relevant authorities and that no new developments have altered the security situation surrounding the tournament. FIFA also acknowledged that the US federation’s choice was made in response to the existing Level 3 travel advisory.

FIFA maintains that security assessments for the tournament are unchanged despite the US team's withdrawal.

To demonstrate the stability of the host nation, FIFA highlighted that Qatar has successfully hosted several international events in recent months. Within the last two weeks, the country held the MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix and the FIP Padel World Cup 2026. The 48-team Under-17 tournament is scheduled to run from November 19 to December 13. The United States had been slated to open its campaign against Montenegro on November 21, followed by group stage matches against Chile and Algeria.

Why it matters

The withdrawal of the US team represents a significant change in the tournament lineup, affecting Group J, where the USA was set to compete. While the tournament continues, the situation highlights the impact of international travel advisories on global sporting events.

For participants and observers, the development underscores the ongoing tension between geopolitical security concerns and the logistics of hosting large-scale international competitions. FIFA’s insistence that its security protocols remain robust suggests a commitment to proceeding with the planned schedule regardless of individual national team participation.