US withdraw from FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar amid Middle East security concerns

The United States have withdrawn from the upcoming FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar because of security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, in a development that could have implications for the tournament, where Morocco are also preparing to compete.

The US Soccer Federation announced the decision on Wednesday, 11 November, informing players that the team would no longer participate in the competition or hold its planned World Cup preparation camp.

In a message to the players, the federation confirmed that the decision had been made after assessing the security situation in the region.

“We are writing to inform you that we have made the difficult decision to cancel our World Cup preparation camp as well as our participation in the competition,” the federation said.

It explained that the withdrawal was influenced by a Level 3 travel advisory issued by the US State Department, alongside security guidance directed at American embassy personnel and their families.

“Unfortunately, given the current circumstances, including the Level 3 travel advisory issued by the US State Department and guidance provided to embassy personnel and their families, we are no longer able to participate in the tournament,” the federation added.

The decision comes amid escalating tensions across the Middle East, with the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran affecting several countries in the region.

Middle East tensions disrupt international sport

Football is not the only sporting discipline experiencing disruption because of the security situation.

Several international sporting events have been cancelled, postponed or moved to alternative locations as organisers respond to the regional instability.

Among the affected competitions are the WTA tennis tournament, which is taking place in Indian Wells, California, this year, and the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, which was cancelled.

The Bahrain Grand Prix was also relocated to Malaysia.

The latest development raises further concerns about the ability of international sporting competitions scheduled in the Middle East to proceed as planned.

Morocco among teams preparing for Qatar tournament

The United States were among the 48 national teams expected to compete at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.

The Gulf nation was selected to host the tournament after successfully staging the senior FIFA World Cup in 2022.

FIFA previously announced plans for Qatar to host the U17 World Cup annually for five consecutive editions, beginning in 2025. The decision was intended to maximise the use of the country’s existing football infrastructure while improving the tournament’s efficiency and sustainability.

Meanwhile, Morocco are continuing their preparations for the competition, with coach Ahmed Kantari having announced a 21-player squad for the tournament.

The United States’ withdrawal comes as another reminder of how the ongoing Middle East security situation is affecting international sport, with attention now turning to whether further disruptions could emerge ahead of the competition.