OMM Newsroom
FIFA has released details on the organization of the U-15 World Cup and festival in Baku. The competition features 189 teams, representing 90% of the national associations affiliated with the governing body. Nearly 4,000 players, coaches and officials have travelled to Baku. For 78 countries, the tournament marks their first participation in a competition held under the FIFA banner.
A 20-pitch complex has been built in Hovsan, with each pitch measuring 68 by 48 metres. Construction began in mid-July, and the first matches were played on October 24. About 950 matches are scheduled over six match days. Games are played in an eight-a-side format and last 40 minutes; the ball is kicked back into play from the touchline.
About 13,000 meals are prepared daily for participants. Ten buses run every hour between the sports complex and the Athletes’ Village. Delegations are housed in six buildings in the village near Lake Boyukshor. The complex also hosted participants in the 2015 European Games. Teams’ linguistic backgrounds were taken into account when assigning rooms.
Roberto Grassi, FIFA’s head of youth tournaments, praised the work of the Azerbaijani side, AFFA and the local organizing committee. He said they hoped the players would remember the tournament throughout their lives and enjoy a week full of excitement. Sophie Laporte, general manager for team services, said more than 11,000 emails had been exchanged with national associations during two to three months of preparations.
The programme also includes educational activities on internet safety, fair play, sportsmanship and career development. All teams continue competing after the group stage, gaining additional match experience. Finals at various levels will be held at Baku Crystal Hall on October 30, with 12 national teams in the spotlight on the final day. FIFA plans to include girls’ teams in the tournament in 2027 and to hold the competition annually for boys and girls from 2028.
Context
The tournament opened in Baku on October 24. A total of 92 matches were scheduled for the first day.
