In an exciting development for football enthusiasts, Qatar and Morocco have been selected as the hosts for the U-17 World Cups for the next five years.
Qatar has been chosen to host the boys’ Under-17 World Cup from 2025 to 2029. This decision comes as no surprise, considering Qatar’s experience in hosting major football events. The upcoming 2022 Men’s World Cup and the Asian Cup are testament to Qatar’s capabilities in organizing and executing successful tournaments.
One notable change for the boys’ tournament is the expansion from 24 to 48 teams. This expansion will allow more countries to participate and showcase their talent on the global stage. It presents an excellent opportunity for young footballers from around the world to gain invaluable experience and exposure.
Qatar has previously hosted the Club World Cup on multiple occasions, further demonstrating its ability to handle international football competitions. With their expertise and infrastructure, Qatar is poised to deliver an exceptional U-17 World Cup experience.
Morocco has been selected as the host for the girls’ Under-17 World Cup for the same period, from 2025 to 2029. This decision reflects FIFA’s recognition of Morocco’s potential as a host nation and its commitment to promoting women’s football.
Similar to the boys’ tournament, the girls’ U-17 World Cup will also see an increase in the number of teams, expanding from 16 to 24. This expansion will provide more opportunities for young female players from around the world to compete at a high level and showcase their skills.
Morocco has a proven track record in hosting international football events. The country has previously held the Club World Cup and is scheduled to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. These experiences highlight Morocco’s capability to organize and host major tournaments, ensuring a memorable and successful girls’ U-17 World Cup.
These decisions reflect FIFA’s ongoing efforts to expand and increase the frequency of major tournaments. The expansion of the men’s World Cup to 48 teams in 2026 and the growth of the women’s World Cup in 2023 are clear examples of FIFA’s commitment to broadening the opportunities for participation and promoting the development of football globally.
By granting Qatar and Morocco the opportunity to host the U-17 World Cups, FIFA is not only recognizing their capabilities but also providing a platform for young talents to shine. These tournaments will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of football, fostering a new generation of players and fans.
