FIFA Under-17 World Cup to kick off in Qatar despite US withdrawal
Also reported by ABC News, Guardian US
Summary
FIFA says the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar will begin on November 19 as planned, despite the U.S. team withdrawing over safety concerns. FIFA said its security assessments remain unchanged and that it is coordinating with local authorities.Key Facts
- The 48-team tournament is scheduled to run from November 19 to December 13.
- US Soccer withdrew the team and cancelled its pre-tournament camp, citing current circumstances and player and staff safety.
- The U.S. State Department updated its Qatar travel advisory last month, advising Americans to reconsider travel because of the risk of armed conflict.
- FIFA said it understood the U.S. decision was made in light of the existing Level 3 travel advisory.
- The U.S. team had been scheduled to open against Montenegro on November 21 in Group J.
- The U.S. was also set to play Chile and Algeria in Group J.
- FIFA said Qatar had hosted other international events in recent weeks, including the Qatar MotoGP Grand Prix and the FIP Padel World Cup 2026.
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