FIFA presses ahead with U-17 World Cup in Qatar after US withdrawal

FIFA has affirmed that the Under-17 World Cup will proceed in Qatar as planned, maintaining that its security assessments have not been affected by the US Soccer Federation's withdrawal from the tournament. The decision by the American federation to exit the competition, which is set to field 48 teams, has not prompted any changes to the international body's risk evaluations or organisational framework for the event.

The US Soccer Federation's pullout marks a significant absence from the youth competition, though FIFA's statement suggests the withdrawal was not prompted by security concerns that would compromise the tournament's viability. The federation has overseen comprehensive security protocols designed to accommodate the expanded 48-team format.

The tournament will represent one of the largest youth football competitions of its kind, with the expanded field bringing new logistical and operational demands. Qatar's hosting of the event follows its recent completion of the senior FIFA World Cup, which concluded in December 2022.

FIFA's confirmation that security measures remain unchanged underscores the organisation's confidence in the host nation's ability to stage the youth competition. The governing body has not disclosed specific details regarding the timing of matches or venue arrangements in response to the reduced participant pool.