The United States has pulled its national team from the FIFA Under-17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar, held from November 19 to December 13, citing the risk of an attack.

The U.S. soccer federation, in a letter to players and staff, explained that the decision was made for the safety of players and staff, following the Donald Trump government’s level three travel advisory on Qatar.

“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. 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,” said the federation.

Since October, the U.S. Department of State has urged citizens to reconsider travel to Qatar “due to risk of armed conflict” and advised government employees to obtain special authorisation to do so.

The U.S. cited likely attacks in neighbouring Saudi Arabia by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, including on civilian airports and critical infrastructure, which “have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area”.

FIFA also, in a statement, confirmed the decision by the U.S., saying, “Fifa has been informed of US Soccer’s decision to withdraw from the Fifa U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.

“The applicable tournament regulations will be followed. Fifa’s security assessments remain unchanged, and no new developments affecting the security situation around the tournament have occurred. Fifa understands that US Soccer’s decision was made in light of the existing US Level 3 travel advisory.

“The safety and security of all participants and fans remains paramount. As with all Fifa tournaments and events, we are in close contact with the relevant authorities and are looking forward to the tournament kick-off in Qatar.”

FIFA regulations for the age-grade tournament stipulate that qualified nations must participate or be fined CHF20,000 (about $24,000) for withdrawing within 30 days of the tournament starting.