The United States has withdrawn from the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar over security concerns linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the decision on November 11, in a message to players, confirming that the team would no longer participate in the tournament or hold its planned World Cup preparation camp.
‘We are writing to inform you that we have made the difficult decision to cancel our World Cup preparation camp as well as our participation in the competition,’ the federation said.
The decision was attributed to the deteriorating security situation in the region, particularly a Level 3 travel advisory issued by the US State Department and guidance directed at American embassy personnel and their families.
‘Unfortunately, given the current circumstances, including the Level 3 travel advisory issued by the U.S. State Department and guidance provided to embassy personnel and their families, we are no longer able to participate in the tournament,’ the federation added.
The United States were among 48 national teams expected to compete in the tournament, which will be staged in Qatar following the country’s hosting of the senior FIFA World Cup in 2022.
The tournament will take place in Qatar from November 19 to December 13, 2026.
FIFA introduced an annual format for the U-17 World Cup, with Qatar selected to host the first five editions from 2025 to 2029. The decision was designed to maximise the use of the country’s existing football infrastructure and improve the competition’s efficiency and sustainability.
The U.S. withdrawal comes amid heightened tensions across the Middle East, involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with the conflict raising security concerns across the region.