The US men’s national team has withdrawn from the Fifa U-17 World Cup, which is scheduled to start in Qatar in just over a week. In a letter sent to players, the US Soccer Federation attributed the decision to safety concerns for players and staff, pointing to the US state department’s travel advisory for Qatar that urges citizens to reconsider travel due to armed conflict risks.
US Soccer Cites Advisory
The US Soccer Federation communicated the withdrawal directly to the team in a letter. “Unfortunately, in light of current circumstances … we are no longer able to participate in the tournament,” the letter states, adding that the wellbeing of players and staff remains the top priority.
A US Soccer spokesperson stated that the federation would not provide further details regarding how it reached the decision. Sport | The Guardian understands that Fifa was notified of the withdrawal on Wednesday.
Under Fifa regulations for the U-17 World Cups, qualified countries must participate or face financial penalties. A withdrawal occurring within 30 days of the tournament’s commencement carries a fine of CHF20,000, which is approximately $24,000.
“Fifa has been informed of US Soccer’s decision to withdraw from the Fifa U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026,” Fifa told Sport | The Guardian in a statement, noting that applicable tournament regulations will be applied. Fifa added that its security assessments are unchanged and that US Soccer’s choice was made based on the existing US Level 3 travel advisory.
Wider Regional Impact
Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have previously caused disruptions to international sports. The 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia was postponed by nearly a year due to regional conflicts, while Qatar withdrew from hosting the 2028 Nations Championship rugby finals because of related uncertainties. Meanwhile, upcoming Formula One races remain scheduled in the region.
Fifa stated that it has factored the regional situation into its planning. “The safety and security of all participants and fans remains paramount,” Fifa said, noting that Qatar has recently hosted multiple international sporting events without incident.
The U-17 World Cup is still slated to begin on November 19 in Doha. The US team was drawn into Group J alongside Montenegro, Algeria, and Chile.
