- Cites Middle East security situation
The United States has withdrawn its men’s Under-17 national team from the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar over security concerns linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, days before the competition kicks off.
The US Soccer Federation announced the decision on Wednesday, November 11, informing players and coaching staff that the team’s pre-tournament training camp had been cancelled alongside its participation in the competition.
In a letter to the players, the federation said the decision followed the United States Department of State’s Level 3 travel advisory for Qatar, which urges American citizens to reconsider travelling to the country because of the potential risk of armed conflict.
“The well-being of our players and staff will always be our top priority,” the federation said, explaining the decision.
The withdrawal comes amid heightened security concerns across the Gulf region following the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which began in February 2026. Qatar, which shares the Persian Gulf region with Iran, has also faced security concerns arising from the wider hostilities.
The American team was drawn in Group J alongside Montenegro, Chile and Algeria, with its opening fixture against Montenegro scheduled for November 21.
The withdrawal ends the country’s preparations for what would have been its sixth consecutive appearance at the tournament.
FIFA confirmed on Thursday that it has been formally notified of the United States’ decision, adding that the relevant tournament regulations would be applied.
However, the world football governing body maintained that its security assessment for the competition remained unchanged.
“The safety and security of all participants and fans remains paramount,” FIFA said, adding that it was maintaining contact with Qatari authorities ahead of the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup is scheduled to run from November 19 to December 13, featuring 48 national teams.
Qatar is hosting the expanded competition for the second consecutive year as part of FIFA’s arrangement to stage five successive editions of the tournament in the country between 2025 and 2029.
Meanwhile, the US withdrawal has raised questions about possible sanctions under FIFA regulations, which provide for a minimum fine of 20,000 Swiss francs for teams that withdraw within 30 days of the opening match.
FIFA also has the authority to consider replacing a team that pulls out of the competition.
The development adds to concerns over the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on international sporting events, with several competitions in the region facing disruptions, postponements or changes to their arrangements.