Baku: Key details have been unveiled for the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026, to be held in Azerbaijan for the first time from October 24 to 30.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the tournament is co-organized by FIFA and the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA). This prestigious tournament will mark the beginning of a new tradition in the international football calendar. Open to all FIFA member associations, it is expected to bring together more than 3,000 young footballers, coaches, and officials from different countries. Nearly 1,000 matches will be played over six matchdays at the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex, with the opening game and the October 30 final scheduled at Baku Crystal Hall.
The tournament will feature an innovative 8v8 format, with matches consisting of two 20-minute halves, designed to support player development and provide greater match experience. The games will be played on 6847-meter pitches with full-size goals measuring 7.32 2.44 meters, and it will be open to players born in 2011 and 2012.
The format ensures no early eliminations, as every team will play through to the final matchday after the classification matches. The winners of each tier will be crowned, with the top team in Tier A honored as FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival champions.
Arsene Wenger, FIFA's Chief Global Football Development, emphasized the importance of providing young players with international opportunities. He stated, "Talent exists everywhere, but young players do not always have the same opportunities to test themselves internationally. This tournament is about giving them that opportunity." FIFA President Gianni Infantino has highlighted this event as crucial in providing every talent a chance globally, while showcasing FIFA's reinvestment in the game.
Approximately 250 volunteers will assist in organizing the event, with applications open on the FIFA volunteer website. The second edition in 2027 is anticipated to include girls' teams, and from 2028, all Member Associations are expected to participate with both boys' and girls' U-15 teams in two separate competitions.