US Withdraws from FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar over Security Concerns

The United States has withdrawn its team from the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar over security concerns. The decision was communicated to players in a letter sent by the federation on Wednesday.

The letter, obtained by Reuters, said the pre-tournament training camp and participation in the competition had been cancelled in light of the current situation and travel advisories issued by the US State Department. The U-17 World Cup is scheduled to begin in Qatar on November 19. The United States were drawn in Group J alongside Montenegro, Algeria and Chile.

The letter referred to the US State Department’s Level 3 travel advisory for Qatar and specific instructions issued to embassy staff and their families. It stated, “The safety and security of our players and staff will always be our highest priority.”

US Soccer said it had informed the players’ clubs of the decision on Wednesday. Players were also asked not to comment publicly on the matter until FIFA officially announced the decision. FIFA did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

Last month, the US State Department updated its travel advisory for Qatar, citing the risk of armed conflict and urging American citizens to reconsider travelling to the country. The updated advisory followed Houthi attacks on civilian airports and critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.

A total of 48 teams will compete in the U-17 World Cup in Qatar. The United States were scheduled to begin their campaign against Montenegro on November 21, followed by matches against Chile and Algeria in Group J.

Qatar also hosted the tournament last year, when the United States reached the Round of 32. Qatar will host the competition annually through 2029.