Qatar is set to host another World Cup, as FIFA had scheduled the world U-17 tournament for 19 November to 13 December. The 48-team format is also making a comeback, with 30 nations already qualified.
Qatar will once again host the world’s top young footballers after FIFA confirmed the dates for the U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
The tournament will run from 19 November to 13 December. It is the second of five consecutive editions set to take place in Qatar through 2029.
The 2026 competition will once again feature 48 teams, continuing the expanded format introduced at last year’s tournament. The change has opened the door for more nations to compete and mirrors the format that will be used at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
So far, 30 teams have already secured their place, with the remaining spots to be decided through continental qualifiers in the coming months.
Building on a record-setting 2025
The 2025 edition in Qatar was the largest in the competition’s history and turned Doha into a hub for emerging global talent.
More than 197,000 fans attended matches across the tournament, while scouts from top clubs gathered to track the next generation of players in a single venue.
A defining feature of the 2025 tournament was its format, with matches staged across Doha's Aspire Zone.
The setup gave the competition a festival feel, allowing fans to watch multiple games in a single day while exposing young players to a demanding match schedule.
Portugal reigning champions
Portugal lifted the trophy in 2025 after defeating Austria 1–0 in the final at Khalifa International Stadium.
The U-17 tournament also helped launch a new wave of young stars, reinforcing its role as a key stepping stone in international football.
The final draw for the 2026 tournament will take place on 21 May in Zurich, with matches again set to be played at Aspire Zone.