Qatar and the wider Gulf region have remained on high alert since the start of US military strikes on Iran in February, although major international sporting events, including a Formula One race in Doha later this month, remain on schedule. The United States was due to begin its campaign against Montenegro on November 21, with Chile and Algeria also drawn in its group. The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has withdrawn its team from the boys’ FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, which begins next week, citing security concerns, FIFA confirmed on Thursday. The 48-team FIFA tournament kicks off in Doha next Wednesday.
The United States soccer body pulled its team from the boys’ Under-17 World Cup in Qatar starting next week for security reasons, FIFA confirmed on Thursday.
The USSF informed players of the decision on Wednesday, just hours after FIFA published the official squad lists for the tournament. FIFA and Qatar are also set to stage the FIFA Intercontinental Cup next month, featuring Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning UEFA Champions League winners. The USSF could face a fine of at least 20,000 Swiss francs (approximately USD 24,000) for withdrawing fewer than 30 days before the start of the tournament, according to FIFA tournament regulations. The 21-player squad selected by coach Alex Aldaz included players from clubs in the United States, England, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Philadelphia Union forward Malik Jakupovic was the team’s leading scorer in qualifying, netting eight of the side’s 19 goals.
“As with all FIFA tournaments and events, we are in close contact with the relevant authorities and are looking forward to the tournament kickoff in Qatar.”
