The United States has pulled its men’s Under-17 national football team out of the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, citing security concerns linked to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
US Soccer announced the decision on Wednesday, November 11, informing players that the federation had cancelled their pre-tournament training camp and withdrawn the team from the competition.
In a letter to the players, the federation pointed to a Level 3 travel advisory that the US State Department issued on October 23. The advisory urged American citizens to reconsider travelling to Qatar because of the risk of armed conflict. US Soccer also cited security directives affecting US Embassy personnel and their families.
The federation said the safety and well-being of its players and staff remained its top priority.
The withdrawal comes just days before the 48-team tournament kicks off on November 19. FIFA has scheduled the final for December 13.
The United States had secured a place in Group J alongside Montenegro, Chile and Algeria. The team was due to open its campaign against Montenegro on November 21.
Head coach Alex Aldaz had already named a 21-player squad for the competition.
Qatar will host the men’s Under-17 World Cup annually from 2025 to 2029, following FIFA’s decision to expand the tournament to 48 teams.
The US withdrawal highlights how geopolitical tensions can disrupt international sporting events, while raising fresh questions about player safety and the responsibilities of tournament organisers when security conditions change.
