Poland Moves Forward With U-20 Women's World Cup Amidst Tensions

WHO:

The New York Times - The Polish Football Association (PZPN), FIFA, UEFA, Concacaf, Asian Football Confederation, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, PZPN general secretary Lukasz Wachowski.

WHAT:

The New York Times - The Polish Football Association is preparing for the 2026 Under-20 Women’s World Cup to go ahead as scheduled.

Yahoo Sports - UEFA has threatened to boycott FIFA events, including World Cups, if FIFA's investor plans are not dropped.

Yahoo Sports - FIFA plans to sell a large minority stake in a new company that will run its main competitions, including the World Cup and Club World Cup.

WHERE:

The New York Times - Poland is set to host the 12th edition of the Under-20 Women’s World Cup.

Yahoo Sports - The tournament will take place in Poland.

WHEN:

The New York Times - The Under-20 Women’s World Cup is scheduled from September 5-27, 2026.

The New York Times - FIFA's plan needs to be approved by September 19, 2026.

WHY:

The New York Times - UEFA and its nations plan to boycott FIFA competitions due to FIFA's proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

Yahoo Sports - The Polish association believes the current situation will soon be resolved, allowing young female footballers to participate in the tournament.

HOW:

The New York Times - PZPN is in close contact with UEFA and is working in accordance with joint arrangements to prepare for the tournament.

Yahoo Sports - The Polish association stated they are consistently implementing all preparations according to plan.

(UPDATED August 1, 2026 01:30 UTC)

The Polish Football Association is moving forward with preparations for the 2026 Under-20 Women’s World Cup, which is set to take place in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2026. However, UEFA has threatened to boycott FIFA events, including World Cups, if FIFA's controversial plans to sell a large minority stake in its competitions are not abandoned, with a decision needed by September 19, 2026. Despite the tensions, the Polish association remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved, allowing young female footballers to participate in the tournament as planned.