Team USA withdraws from FIFA U-17 World Cup amid State Department travel warning in Middle East

U.S. Soccer has withdrawn its under-17 men’s national team from the World Cup in Qatar, citing safety concerns and a Level 3 State Department travel advisory due to the risk of armed conflict. The federation prioritized player and staff well-being, canceling participation just days before the tournament’s scheduled start. The advisory mentioned specific threats including attacks by Houthi forces and risks to civilian aviation from regional tensions.

• U.S. Soccer withdrew its U-17 men’s national team from the World Cup in Qatar.
• The decision was based on safety concerns and a State Department Level 3 travel advisory.
• The advisory warned of the risk of armed conflict and recommended reconsidering travel to Qatar.
• The federation stated that the well-being of players and staff is their top priority.
• The withdrawal came eight days before the tournament’s scheduled November 19 kickoff.