FIFA Revolution: U17 World Cup Annual, 1st 5 in Qatar

FIFA: U17 WC to be held annually, 1st 5 in Qatar In a historic move, FIFA has announced that the Under-17 World Cup will now be held annually rather than biennially, with the next five editions scheduled to take place in Qatar starting from 2025. This decision mirrors the format of the senior men's World Cup and aims to provide more opportunities for young players to showcase their talent on the global stage. Furthermore, FIFA revealed that the Under-17 tournament will be expanded to include 48 teams, allowing more nations to participate and compete for the coveted title. Alongside the men's competition, the women's Under-17 World Cup will also be played annually from 2025, with Morocco set to host an expanded 24-team event until 2029. The shift towards annual tournaments is part of FIFA's broader strategy to ensure that no age group of players misses out on the opportunity to participate in prestigious international competitions. By accelerating the development of national teams worldwide, FIFA aims to promote the growth and competitiveness of youth football on a global scale. These decisions reflect the increasing influence of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in the world of soccer. Qatar, which successfully hosted the men's 2022 World Cup, and Morocco, a co-host of the upcoming 2030 edition, have emerged as key players within FIFA's decision-making process. With representatives from these countries serving on the FIFA Council, the region's impact on the future of international football is undeniable. Moreover, FIFA has earmarked a record $2.25 billion for the 2023-2026 cycle to invest in football development initiatives worldwide. This financial commitment underscores FIFA's dedication to promoting the sport at all levels and fostering its growth across regions and demographics. Looking ahead, FIFA's council has proposed measures to address the issue of racism in soccer, with plans to implement stricter regulations to combat discriminatory behavior within the sport. The upcoming congress meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, will serve as a critical platform for member federations to discuss and implement these anti-racism measures, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasizing the urgency of eradicating racism from the game. Additionally, the FIFA council confirmed that the host for the 2027 Women's World Cup will be decided in a competitive bidding process involving Brazil, the United States and Mexico, as well as a joint bid from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. The transparency of the selection process, with results made public, underscores FIFA's commitment to fairness and accountability in its decision-making procedures. As FIFA continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of international football, these recent developments signal a new chapter in the organization's ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity, diversity, and excellence in the world's most popular sport.