FIFA President Gianni Infantino was involved in developing plans for an Under-15 World Cup. According to The Athletic, the tournament was intended to feature all 211 national associations.
Florida was slated to host the event. Teams were to play shortened matches on smaller pitches, with opening and closing ceremonies planned for Disney parks. Infantino envisioned a match between the Israeli and Palestinian youth teams as the tournament opener.
The idea faced criticism from UEFA, CONMEBOL, the AFC, and CONCACAF. Ultimately, the project for this large-scale youth championship was scrapped ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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