Men’s, women’s U-17 World Cups to be staged annually from 2025, says FIFA; Qatar, Morocco named hosts for next 5 editions

FIFA announced that starting from 2025, both the men’s and women’s editions of the U-17 World Cup will be held annually instead of every two years. Qatar has been named as the host for the men’s U-17 World Cup from 2025 to 2029, while Morocco will host the women’s version for the same period. Additionally, the men’s U-17 World Cup will be expanded to include 48 teams (up from 24), and the women’s tournament will expand to 24 teams (up from 16). FIFA stated that these decisions were made to utilize existing football infrastructure efficiently and sustainably.

FIFA also announced a record $2.25 billion earmarked for football development in the 2023-2026 cycle, exceeding its budgetary target. This investment marks almost seven times the amount spent on development programs before 2016. The council’s annual report will be presented at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok on May 17, 2024, for final approval.

Furthermore, the FIFA Congress will vote on the host(s) of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Bangkok. Bids have been received from Brazil, a joint bid from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as a joint bid from Mexico and the United States.

Source – CGTN