Zurich: The stage is set for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 following the official draw held in Zurich, Switzerland on 21 May ahead of the tournament’s return to Doha from 19 November to 13 December. Hosts Qatar was drawn into Group A, alongside Panama, Egypt and Greece. Notable teams returning to Doha include Italy, Brazil, Morocco, Japan and Saudi Arabia, among others.
Continuing the expanded 48-team format successfully introduced in 2025, qualified nations were drawn into 12 groups of four, producing a number of compelling matchups for the second of five consecutive editions of the youth tournament that Qatar will host through 2029.
Speaking virtually at the draw, Jassim Al Jassim, CEO, FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026™ Local Organising Committee, highlighted Qatar’s commitment towards delivering another exceptional edition of the prestigious youth tournament.
“Last year, Qatar made history by hosting the first-ever 48-team FIFA tournament, welcoming 1,008 young players. More than 197,000 fans attended 104 matches across eight pitches of the Aspire Zone complex, creating a unique festival atmosphere. Congratulations to all qualified teams, we look forward to welcoming you to Doha,” he added.
The 2026 edition also features debutant nations Montenegro, Greece, Romania, Serbia and Vietnam, who are making their first appearance in the tournament.
With 46 of the 48 participating teams already confirmed, the tournament’s final line-up will be decided on 23 May, when the CAF play-off matches conclude at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The two remaining berths will be awarded to the winners of the play-offs between Ethiopia v Mozambique and Uganda v Ghana.
