FIFA will conduct the live draw for the U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 in Zurich, Switzerland, on Thursday, May 21, 2026 [1], [2].

This event establishes the competitive landscape for the tournament, determining which nations will face one another in the initial group stages. Because the draw dictates travel schedules and tactical preparations, it serves as the official starting point for the tournament's competitive phase.

The draw will take place at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich [1], [2]. This process will organize the group allocations for the 21st edition of the tournament [3]. This iteration of the competition marks a significant scale in youth football, as it will feature 48 participating countries [4].

Qatar will serve as the host for the event, which is scheduled to run from Nov. 19 to Dec. 13, 2026 [5]. The expanded format of 48 teams ensures a broader global representation of youth talent, a move intended to grow the game's reach in developing football regions.

FIFA officials will oversee the proceedings to ensure the transparency of the group assignments [1]. The resulting brackets will define the path for each nation as they compete for the title in Qatar later this year [5].

“FIFA will conduct the live draw for the U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 in Zurich”

The expansion to 48 teams for the 21st edition of the U-17 World Cup reflects FIFA's broader strategy to internationalize the sport. By increasing the number of participating nations, the governing body provides more developmental opportunities for youth players from smaller footballing nations, potentially altering the traditional power dynamics of the tournament.