Major U-17 World Cup Twist as United States Withdraws Before Kick-Off

The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has withdrawn its team from the boys' FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, which begins next week, citing security concerns, FIFA confirmed on Thursday. Qatar and the wider Gulf region have remained on high alert since the start of US military strikes on Iran in February, although major international sporting events, including a Formula One race in Doha later this month, remain on schedule. The 48-team FIFA tournament kicks off in Doha next Wednesday. The United States was due to begin its campaign against Montenegro on November 21, with Chile and Algeria also drawn in its group.

"FIFA understands that U.S. Soccer's decision was made in light of the existing U.S. Level 3 travel advisory," FIFA said in a statement.

The governing body noted that several international sporting events had been hosted safely in Qatar this year, including a Diamond League athletics meeting, a MotoGP race and qualifying games for the 2027 FIBA Men's Basketball World Cup.

FIFA and Qatar are also set to stage the FIFA Intercontinental Cup next month, featuring Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning UEFA Champions League winners.

FIFA added that "security assessments remain unchanged, and no new developments affecting the security situation around the tournament have occurred.

The governing body has yet to announce a replacement for the United States. However, the Dominican Republic, which finished second behind the US in the CONCACAF qualifying competition, could be considered as a potential replacement.

According to FIFA tournament regulations, the USSF could face a fine of at least 20,000 Swiss francs (approximately USD 24,000) for withdrawing fewer than 30 days before the start of the tournament.

Qatar is hosting every edition of the annual boys' Under-17 World Cup from 2025 to 2029. The final of this year's 104-match tournament is scheduled for December 13.

The competition will feature teams from across the globe, including China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Argentina, Brazil, France, Denmark, Ireland, Italy and Spain.

The USSF informed players of the decision on Wednesday, just hours after FIFA published the official squad lists for the tournament.

The 21-player squad selected by coach Alex Aldaz included players from clubs in the United States, England, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Philadelphia Union forward Malik Jakupovic was the team's leading scorer in qualifying, netting eight of the side's 19 goals.

"The safety and security of all participants and fans remains paramount," FIFA said.

"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."

Original News: Associated Press

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