Ammon News - US Soccer has withdrawn its national team from the men's FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar ​over safety concerns, the federation told players on ‌Wednesday.

In a letter sent to players and provided to Reuters, the federation said it was cancelling the team's pre-tournament camp ​and its participation in the event "in light of ​current circumstances."

It cited the US State Department's Level ⁠3 travel advisory for Qatar and related directives ​for embassy staff and families.

"The well-being of our players ​and staff will always be our top priority," the letter said.

US Soccer said it would notify the players' clubs on Wednesday. ​It asked players not to comment publicly until FIFA ​announces the decision.

FIFA did not immediately respond to a Reuters request ‌for ⁠comment.

The State Department updated its advisory for Qatar last month, urging Americans to reconsider travel because of the risk of armed conflict.

The update cited Houthi attacks ​on Saudi Arabia, ​including on civilian ⁠airports and critical infrastructure.

The 48-team tournament runs from November 19 to December 13. The ​United States had been due to open ​against ⁠Montenegro on November 21 before facing Chile and Algeria in Group J.

The US reached the round of 32 ⁠at ​last year's edition, also held in ​Qatar, which is set to host the event every year through 2029.


Reuters