U.S. Soccer has withdrawn its men’s under-17 team from the World Cup in Qatar, citing safety concerns. The decision cancels the preparation camp as well as tournament participation, after coach Alex Aldaz had named his squad. A US travel advisory asking citizens to reconsider travel to Qatar remains in place ahead of the competition.
The United States has withdrawn its men’s under-17 football team from the World Cup in Qatar over safety concerns.[1], [2]
U.S. Soccer, the national federation, confirmed the decision on 11 November. A letter to players cancelled both their preparation camp and their participation in the tournament. Coach Alex Aldaz had announced the squad the previous week.[1]
The US State Department issued a Level 3 advisory for Qatar on 23 October, asking American citizens to reconsider travel. The advisory includes the risk of armed conflict. The federation cited safety when explaining its withdrawal. Its notice followed the selection of a 21-player squad and preceded the opening of the competition, scheduled for 19 November.[1]
The tournament is scheduled to finish on 13 December with a planned field of 48 teams. The Americans had been due to face Montenegro on 21 November, then Chile and Algeria. The world football governing body FIFA selected Qatar in 2024 to host annual editions from 2025 through 2029. The United States reached the round of 32 at the previous edition.[1]
