FIFA president says Qatar safe for U-17 World Cup despite US withdrawal

13-Nov-2026

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FIFA President Gianni Infantino and local organisers say Qatar is safe to host the U-17 World Cup despite the US withdrawal, as FIFA confirms the Dominican Republic will take its place in the tournament. 

Infantino says Qatar is safe to host the upcoming Under-17 World Cup, despite the United States withdrawing its team over security concerns.

Speaking to Euronews and local media in Doha on November 12, Infantino said the decision was up to US Soccer but insisted other teams had nothing to fear.

"Every country, every national team knows best by themselves what they want to do, they decide," he said.

"What I can say is that everyone is welcome in Doha, everyone is safe in Doha," the FIFA president added.