USA withdraw from U17 World Cup in Qatar over security concerns

The United States have withdrawn from the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar because of security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

US Soccer informed FIFA, players and staff of the decision on Wednesday, November 11, just over a week before the tournament is scheduled to begin.

In a letter to the players, the federation cited the US State Department's Level 3 travel advisory for Qatar, which advises Americans to reconsider travelling to the country because of the risk of armed conflict.

"The well-being of our players and staff will always be our top priority," US Soccer said in its message.

FIFA confirmed it had been informed of the withdrawal but insisted that its own security assessments remained unchanged, with no new developments affecting the tournament.

The USA had been drawn in Group J alongside Montenegro, Chile and Algeria. The 48-team competition is due to take place in Doha from November 19 to December 13.

Under FIFA regulations, withdrawing within 30 days of the tournament's start carries a minimum fine of 20,000 Swiss francs. FIFA has not yet named a replacement for the United States.