Organizing Committee reviews preparations for FIFA Youth World Cups in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has gained significant experience in hosting major international sporting events, strengthening its reputation as a reliable venue for global competitions.

Building on this experience, the country is preparing to host the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in 2026, as well as the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2027.

A meeting of the Organizing Committee was held to assess the progress of preparations for both tournaments and discuss upcoming organizational tasks, AzerNEWS reports.

During the meeting, officials reviewed key issues related to the competitions, including the readiness of sports facilities, infrastructure projects, and coordination between relevant institutions.

The discussions took place after a relevant decree by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated July 27, 2026, assigned the organization of the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival to the same Organizing Committee responsible for the FIFA U-20 World Cup

Opening the meeting, Azerbaijan Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Organizing Committee Samir Sharifov noted that the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival will be held in Azerbaijan from October 22 to 31, 2026. He pointed out that hosting this prestigious international sporting event, which will be held for the first time in the history of world football, demonstrates the high level of confidence placed in Azerbaijan.

It was also highlighted that more than 175 countries are expected to participate in the event, with each delegation consisting of 20 members. The main goal of the youth competition, which will be held under the FIFA banner for the first time, is to support the development of young talents at the highest international level.

During the meeting, officials reviewed the readiness of sports facilities, the progress of construction and infrastructure projects, and other organizational matters related to the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival.

The committee also discussed preparations for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in 2027.

The tournament will feature national teams from 24 countries.

The FIFA U-20 World Cup is one of the most prestigious youth football tournaments in the world, providing a platform for emerging talents and future football stars. Organized by FIFA every two years, the competition has featured many players who later achieved success at the highest level of international football.

The FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival is part of FIFA's broader efforts to support youth football development and provide young players with international experience at an early stage of their careers. The event will be attended by the young athletes and football representatives from different countries, combining competitive matches with activities focused on the development of youth sport.

Recall that Azerbaijan has previously hosted high-profile football competitions, including matches of the UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Europa League final, while continuing to develop its sports infrastructure and support football development.