US Under-17 Team Withdraws From World Cup in Qatar Over Security Fears
The U.S. Under-17 football team has withdrawn from the upcoming World Cup in Qatar due to security concerns and State Department advisories. FIFA confirmed it received the notice but plans to proceed with the tournament as scheduled.
The United States Under-17 national football team has withdrawn from the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, scheduled from November 19 to December 13, citing heightened security concerns in the region. In a letter sent to the players, the U.S. Soccer Federation explained that the decision was made "in light of current circumstances" and in accordance with recommendations from the U.S. State Department.
Last month, the State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Qatar, urging American citizens to reconsider travel to the country due to the risk of an armed conflict. The warning followed a missile attack by Houthi rebels in Yemen targeting the international airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which resulted in causalities and rising tensions. Following the incident, American diplomats in Saudi Arabia received instructions regarding the security situation, while ongoing aerial strikes and regional volatility continued to impact the Gulf region.
Despite the American withdrawal, FIFA maintains its position regarding the tournament. In a response to the Guardian, world football's governing body confirmed it was notified of the U.S. decision, but emphasized that its security assessments remain unchanged and that no new developments impact the safety of the tournament. FIFA added that the safety of participants and fans remains a top priority and that Qatar has successfully hosted multiple international sporting events in recent months.
The withdrawal may also carry financial implications for the American federation. Under FIFA regulations, qualified teams are required to participate, and late withdrawals can incur financial penalties. Meanwhile, the broader regional security situation has already impacted other competitions, including the postponement of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
