The USA withdraw from the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, citing security risks in the Middle East

The United States national team has withdrawn from the Under-17 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in Qatar from November 19 to December 13, citing security risks in the Middle East. The decision was announced Wednesday by the U.S. Soccer Federation, ahead of the tournament.

US Soccer informed the players that it had canceled both the training camp and participation in the competition. The federation justified the decision by citing the Level 3 travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State, as well as directives issued to U.S. embassy personnel and their families.

The United States was set to be one of the 48 participating teams and had been drawn in Group J alongside Montenegro, Chile and Algeria. FIFA has not yet said which team will occupy the place left vacant by the Americans.

The withdrawal comes amid an escalation of the conflict in the Middle East and missile and drone attacks in the region. In recent weeks, several sporting competitions have been canceled, postponed or relocated, including tennis and Formula 1 events.

The Under-17 World Cup will be held in Qatar for five consecutive editions, starting in 2025, with FIFA citing the use of existing infrastructure and logistical efficiency. Romania will compete in Group K alongside Mexico, Cameroon and Venezuela.