Qatar Set for Star-Studded Draw

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

• Arab Cup draw set for May 25
• U-17 World Cup expands to 48 teams
• Qatar to host tournaments through 2029

Doha will play host to a glittering double draw ceremony this Sunday as the final fixtures for the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 and the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025 are unveiled.

The event, set to take place at the Raffles Hotel on May 25, marks a major milestone in Qatar’s preparations to host two major tournaments later this year. Organised by the Local Organising Committee, the draw will feature football legends from Qatar, the Arab world, and beyond.

Sixteen Arab nations will take part in the FIFA Arab Cup 2025, which is scheduled from 1 to 18 December in Doha. Nine teams — including hosts Qatar and defending champions Algeria — have already qualified via FIFA rankings. The final seven places will be decided in November play-offs.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 will be the first youth tournament of its kind to feature 48 teams, with 104 matches scheduled across 25 days. The competition kicks off a bold new era for youth football, with Qatar set to host five consecutive editions through to 2029.

ds