United States Soccer Federation, FIFA and the United States Under-17 team
11 November 2026
The United States have withdrawn from the men’s Under-17 World Cup in Qatar because of security concerns, according to their football federation. The decision removes the team from the tournament scheduled to begin on 19 November, despite a 21-player squad being announced previously.
U.S. Soccer informed its players after a State Department advisory urged Americans to reconsider travel to Qatar amid regional conflict risks. The federation cancelled its pre-tournament camp and participation, prioritising safety. The United States had been due to face Montenegro, Chile and Algeria.
Why It Matters
A major national team's withdrawal over security concerns disrupts World Cup preparations and raises questions about participation arrangements for the tournament.