The FIFA U-15 World Cup is a new international youth football competition organised by FIFA to give young players greater opportunities to compete on the global stage. The inaugural edition took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from October 24 to 30, 2026, featuring boys' national teams from 189 FIFA member associations.
Unlike traditional World Cup tournaments, the competition prioritises player development, international experience and participation, ensuring every team continues playing throughout the event.
FIFA U-15 World Cup 2026: Tournament Details
Here are the key details about the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival:
Organiser: FIFA
Host country: Azerbaijan
Host city: Baku
Dates: October 24–30, 2026
Participating teams: 189 national associations
Eligible players: Born in 2011 or 2012
Format: Eight-a-side football
Venues: Hövsan Competition Complex and Baku Crystal Hall
Broadcast: FIFA+ and DAZN
The tournament was approved by the FIFA Council in December 2025 as part of the organisation's commitment to developing grassroots and youth football.
FIFA U-15 World Cup Format and Rules Explained
The FIFA U-15 World Cup follows a unique format designed to maximise playing opportunities rather than eliminate teams early.
1. Eight-a-Side Football Rules
Matches feature eight players per team on the pitch, with two 20-minute halves and unlimited rolling substitutions. The pitch measures 68 by 47 metres, and kick-ins replace traditional throw-ins. Offside rules apply only beyond marked lines 14 metres from each goal line.
These rules encourage more touches on the ball, quicker decisions and greater involvement from individual players.
2. Qualification and Tournament Stages
The competition begins with a round-robin qualification stage, where teams play four or five matches. Their performances determine placement into six tiers for the tournament stage.
Teams then play another four or five matches, with each tier crowning its own winner. The winner of Tier A is recognised as the overall FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival champion.
The structure ensures that every participating team continues competing until the final matchday, regardless of its early results.
FIFA U-15 World Cup 2026 Venues
All matches take place in Baku, Azerbaijan. Most fixtures are scheduled at the Hövsan Competition Complex, a purpose-built football facility intended to support youth academies and local clubs after the tournament.
Meanwhile, Baku Crystal Hall hosts the opening match, opening ceremony and tier finals, providing a major stage for the competition's most significant moments.
Why Is the FIFA U-15 World Cup Important?
The tournament aims to give young footballers from all participating associations valuable international experience, including players from countries that rarely qualify for established FIFA youth competitions.
It also encourages coaches and technical staff to exchange knowledge and learn from different footballing cultures. Beyond the matches, the accompanying festival promotes friendship, inclusion and education through activities such as life-skills programmes and a dedicated Learning Zone.
FIFA U-15 World Cup: Future Editions
The inaugural 2026 edition features boys' teams, while the 2027 tournament is planned for girls' national teams. From 2028 onwards, FIFA intends to organise separate boys' and girls' competitions annually, with member associations invited to enter both.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the FIFA U-15 World Cup 2026?
The inaugural tournament is scheduled for October 24–30, 2026, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
2. How many teams are participating in the FIFA U-15 World Cup?
The 2026 edition features 189 participating national associations from across FIFA's six confederations.
3. What is the age limit for the FIFA U-15 World Cup?
For the 2026 edition, eligible players must have been born in 2011 or 2012.
4. How many players are on each team?
Each team plays with eight players on the pitch, with squads consisting of 14 players and up to six staff members.
5. Where can fans watch the FIFA U-15 World Cup?
Matches are available through FIFA+ and DAZN, according to the tournament's published broadcasting information.
6. Will there be a FIFA U-15 Women's World Cup?
Yes. The 2027 edition is planned for girls' national teams, with separate boys' and girls' competitions intended from 2028 onwards.