FIFA Under-17 World Cup Set to Proceed in Qatar Amidst US Team Withdrawal Over Safety Concerns

The FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar is scheduled to commence as planned on November 19, according to FIFA, despite the United States Soccer Federation's decision to withdraw its team. The US Soccer Federation cited safety concerns as the reason for its withdrawal. However, the sport's global governing body, which is hosting the tournament in Qatar, confirmed on Thursday that its preparations remain unaffected. FIFA stated in a message to Al Jazeera, "The safety and security of all participants and fans remain paramount. As with all FIFA tournaments and events, we are in close contact with the relevant authorities and ‌‌‌‌are looking forward to the tournament kickoff in Qatar." The organization also noted that "In recent months, Qatar has successfully hosted several international events," including the MotoGP’s Qatar Grand Prix and the FIP Padel World Cup 2026, both of which concluded on the same day recently. With one week remaining until the Under-17 World Cup begins, FIFA has reiterated that its security assessments "remain unchanged" and that no new developments have impacted the security situation surrounding the tournament. FIFA acknowledged that the US Soccer's decision was influenced by the existing US ⁠⁠⁠⁠Level 3 travel advisory. According to Reuters, a letter sent by the US Soccer Federation to players indicated the cancellation of the team’s pre-tournament camp and participation in the event "in light of current circumstances". The US State Department had previously updated its advisory for Qatar, recommending that Americans reconsider travel due to the risk of armed conflict, referencing Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes on civilian ‌‌‌‌airports and critical infrastructure. The US federation emphasized that "The well-being of our players and staff will always be our top priority." The 48-team Under-17 tournament is slated to run from November 19 to December 13. The USA was scheduled to compete in Group J, with their opening match against Montenegro on November 21, followed by games against Chile and Algeria. The Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is designated to host the final of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.