US withdraws from U-17 World Cup in Qatar over security fears

The United States has decided to withdraw from the upcoming U-17 soccer World Cup in Qatar, citing security concerns in the Middle East. Players were informed of the decision just over a week before the tournament is set to commence on November 19, according to US Soccer Collective and The Athletic, both of which reported the news based on anonymous sources.

US Soccer, the sport's governing body in the United States, has not yet confirmed the news or responded to AFP's request for comment. The Middle Eastern conflict, which began in February with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has had a ripple effect on sporting events in the region. Other events affected include the tennis WTA Finals, originally scheduled in Saudi Arabia but now taking place in Indian Wells, USA, and the Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah, which was cancelled and later rescheduled to Malaysia.

Additionally, several events in Saudi Arabia have been cancelled or postponed following attacks by the Houthis in Yemen. The US is among 48 teams scheduled to participate in the Under-17 World Cup, which was moved to an annual event last year and will be hosted in Qatar for five consecutive years. In 2024, FIFA chose a single host nation for multiple editions to utilize existing footballing infrastructure for tournament efficiencies and sustainability, with Qatar selected as the venue of the 2022 men's World Cup.