Qatar has been awarded the hosting rights for the FIFA U-17 World Cup from 2025 to 2029, beginning with the 2025 edition and concluding with the 2029 edition.

It was confirmed that the next five editions of the competition, starting in 2025, will take place in Qatar. Likewise, the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup™, which has been expanded to 24 teams and will be played annually as of 2025, will be hosted by Morocco until 2029. This followed a global call for expressions of interest in hosting both competitions, focusing on leveraging the use of existing footballing infrastructure in the interest of tournament efficiencies and sustainability.

Following a meeting of the FIFA Council, it was decided to expand the tournament to include 48 teams and to hold it annually rather than biennially. This significant decision reflects FIFA’s confidence in Qatar’s capabilities and remarkable potential to successfully organize major football events.

The announcement underscores Qatar’s growing prominence in football and the nation’s commitment to fostering global sporting excellence.