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US Soccer confirmed the decision after reviewing a US State Department travel advisory that warns American citizens about the risk of armed conflict in Qatar. The late withdrawal could also leave the federation facing a financial penalty from FIFA.
US withdraw from U17 World Cup over safety concerns
The United States Under-17 men’s team will no longer travel to Doha after US Soccer informed players that it had cancelled their pre-tournament training camp and participation in the competition, scheduled to begin on November 19.
In a letter seen by AFP, the federation referenced the State Department’s Level 3 travel advisory for Qatar, which urges American citizens to reconsider travelling to the country “due to risk of armed conflict”.
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The advisory also requires US government employees to obtain special authorisation before travelling to Qatar.
US Soccer explains withdrawal decision
In its letter to players, US Soccer expressed disappointment over the decision but maintained that the safety of its players and staff remained its priority.
“We are writing to inform you of the difficult decision to cancel our World Cup pre-camp and our planned participation in the World Cup,” the letter read. “We are extremely proud of the preparation by our players and coaches to represent the US in the World Cup.
“Unfortunately, in light of current circumstances including the US State Department’s Level 3 Travel Advisory for Qatar and related directives for Embassy staff and families, we are no longer able to participate in the tournament. The well-being of our players and staff will always be our top priority.”
The federation also acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the withdrawal, adding: “Please accept our deepest appreciation for your commitment to US Soccer and our shared disappointment about these circumstances.”
US face possible FIFA fine over late withdrawal
The decision could come at a financial cost to US Soccer, as FIFA regulations require qualified teams to honour their participation commitments or face sanctions.
A US Soccer spokesperson declined to provide further details about how the decision was reached. However, The Guardian reported that FIFA was informed of the withdrawal on Wednesday.
Under FIFA regulations, a team that withdraws within 30 days of a tournament’s opening date faces a fine of CHF20,000 (about $24,000).
FIFA has been approached for comment on the development.
The withdrawal comes as conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt sporting events. The crisis, which began in February with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has already led to the postponement of the 2027 Asian Cup by nearly a year and the cancellation of Formula One’s Jeddah race.
Qatar U17 World Cup to proceed with 48 teams
Despite the United States’ withdrawal, the Under-17 World Cup is still scheduled to begin in Doha on November 19, with 48 teams expected to compete.
The US had been drawn in Group J alongside Montenegro, Algeria and Chile. Their squad included several promising young players from Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs and teams abroad.
