Post by : Maya Rahman

The Local Organizing Committee of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 has officially announced that the country is fully prepared to host the tournament, which will take place from November 3 to November 27. The announcement came during a press conference at Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel in Aspire Zone. This will be the first of five consecutive editions Qatar will host through 2029, welcoming fans and teams from across the globe to its world-class facilities and advanced infrastructure.

Eng. Abdulaziz Fakhroo, Director of Transportation and Mobility at the Local Organizing Committee, emphasized that Qatar is ready to receive the world’s best 48 youth national teams. He highlighted that Qatar’s extensive experience in hosting international tournaments, including the historic FIFA World Cup 2022, has established the nation as a leader in global sports organization. Hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup, he said, further extends Qatar’s sporting legacy and solidifies its reputation as a global sports capital.

Fakhroo explained that the Aspire competition complex is fully prepared to host all matches, with comprehensive transport and mobility plans in place. He revealed that parking facilities for 3,900 vehicles have been allocated for the tournament. The Doha Metro will serve as the main transportation mode for fans, providing easy access to match venues. Qatar’s modern road network and efficient public transportation system ensure that fans can travel comfortably between stadiums and explore key attractions across Doha during the event.

According to Fakhroo, Qatar has leveraged the valuable experience gained from hosting major international events, including the FIFA World Cup, to further improve its organizational and operational standards. He noted that hosting all tournament matches within a single location at Aspire Zone is a new and innovative approach, designed to enhance fan engagement and simplify logistics. A brief opening ceremony will precede the Qatar vs. Italy match on November 3 at Pitch No. 7 in Aspire, marking the start of the global youth competition.

Eng. Jassim Al Obaidli, Senior Director of Facilities Management at the Organizing Committee, affirmed Qatar’s readiness to host the largest-ever edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup. With 48 national teams participating, he said the country is proud to offer world-class infrastructure that meets FIFA’s highest standards. Hosting the tournament within a single venue, he added, poses a challenge but also showcases Qatar’s efficiency and organizational excellence. Al Obaidli emphasized that Qatar’s hosting marks the first of five consecutive tournaments that will strengthen its global reputation in sports management.

Senior Director of Marketing Operations, Ahmed Al Ahmad Al Meghessib, introduced the “Road to Qatar” ticketing application, which offers fans a seamless digital experience. The app allows users to purchase, manage, or transfer tickets, ensuring smooth access to stadiums. Tickets include options for fans with disabilities and special parking permits for easier entry. Each person can purchase up to six tickets per day, with prices starting from QR 15 for finals and QR 20 for daily matches. Fans can also buy “Support Your Team” tickets to cheer for Qatar’s U-17 national team during the group stage.

Al Meghessib said that the Fan Zone will feature diverse entertainment options, including children’s areas, promotional activities, cultural showcases, and food pavilions. These additions aim to make the tournament a true football celebration that reflects Qatar’s hospitality and cultural diversity. He also confirmed that the “Road to Qatar” app will serve as a unified platform for future events such as the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 and the FIFA Club Confederations Cup 2025, making it easier for fans to access multiple tournaments using one platform.

Director of Local and Regional Media, Mohammed Al Khanji, revealed that the media accreditation platform has received around 1,000 applications from journalists worldwide. This strong media interest reflects global enthusiasm for the event. Al Khanji said preparations are underway for a dedicated media center and press conference room to ensure excellent coverage and support for local and international journalists.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 will feature 104 matches played across eight pitches within the Aspire Zone. The final match will be held on November 27 at the Khalifa International Stadium, one of the iconic venues from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Hosting all matches in one area will allow fans to enjoy multiple games daily while maintaining a lively, festival-like atmosphere throughout the tournament.

In the official draw, Qatar’s U-17 national team was placed in Group A alongside Italy, South Africa, and Bolivia. Qatar will open its campaign against Italy on November 3, aiming to surpass its historic fourth-place finish in the 1991 edition. The Local Organizing Committee expressed optimism that the team will deliver strong performances and that the event will inspire a new generation of young footballers in Qatar and beyond.

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