Baku, Azerbaijan, is set to host the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival, marking a new milestone in global youth football development. The tournament represents FIFA's latest initiative to expand competitive opportunities for younger age groups on the international stage.
The event combines a traditional World Cup format with a festival component, aiming to provide both competitive matches and developmental experiences for participating nations. As the first edition of this competition, it establishes a new pathway for players aged 15 and under to gain international tournament experience.
FIFA's decision to launch the U-15 category fills a gap in the existing youth tournament structure, which previously included U-17 and U-20 World Cups. The festival element suggests additional programming beyond match play, potentially including training sessions, educational workshops, and cultural exchange activities for young athletes.
