US withdraws from FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar
US drops FIFA U-17 World Cup participation over Middle East security fears.
In brief
US drops FIFA U-17 World Cup participation over Middle East security fears. The US withdrew from the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar due to security concerns from the Middle East conflict. Originally reported by Sportstar.
US withdraws from FIFA U-17 World Cup
The United States withdrew from the upcoming Under-17 FIFA World Cup in Qatar due to security concerns in the Middle East.
“We are writing to inform you of the difficult decision to cancel our World Cup pre-camp and our planned participation in the World Cup”
Players informed of decision
Players were informed of the withdrawal just over a week before the tournament begins on November 19, via a letter from the US governing body.
Security concerns cited
The US cited the State Department’s Level 3 Travel Advisory for Qatar and related directives for Embassy staff and families as reasons for withdrawal.
Middle East conflict impact
The Middle East conflict has affected multiple sporting events, including the WTA Finals and Formula One races in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The bottom line
The US withdrew from the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar due to security concerns from the Middle East conflict.
