Baku: President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on measures related to hosting the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan in 2026. According to the decree, the Organizing Committee established under the presidential order of Dec. 15, 2025, on preparations for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan has been tasked with coordinating the relevant measures and resolving issues necessary to ensure the successful organization of the tournament. According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Cabinet of Ministers has been instructed to address all matters arising from the implementation of the decree. On June 25, 2026, the Bureau of the FIFA Council decided to stage the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan from Oct. 22 to 31. Hosting the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival-the first event of its kind in football-will further strengthen Azerbaijan's standing in international sport, contribute to the development of football in the country, and enhance its experience in organizi ng major international sporting events.