U.S. Boys’ Under-17 Team Withdraws From FIFA World Cup Over Security Concerns
The United States has withdrawn its boys' Under-17 team from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, citing security concerns in the Gulf region.
Evansville, IN, November 12, 2026 — The United States Soccer Federation has announced the withdrawal of its boys’ Under-17 national team from the upcoming FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be held in Qatar.
The decision was attributed to unspecified security concerns within the Gulf region. Details regarding the nature of these security concerns were not immediately provided.
The withdrawal means the U.S. will not be represented by its Under-17 boys’ squad in the international tournament. The FIFA World Cup is a significant event in youth soccer, bringing together top national teams from around the globe.
Information regarding any potential replacement team or the process for filling the U.S. team’s slot in the tournament bracket has not been released. The federation’s statement cited security as the primary factor influencing this decision. Further information on the specific security advisories or the timeline of the decision-making process was not disclosed.
Story summarized from the original created by GRAHAM DUNBAR, Associated Press on www.tristatehomepage.com, see more information here.
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