Japanese FA pulls out FIFAe World Cup in Saudi over security fears

October 12 – The Japanese FA (JFA) has withdrawn from the FIFAe World Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, following security concerns. In a brief statement on Saturday, the JFA wrote: “Japan Football Association (JFA) has decided not to participate in the FIFAe World Cup 2026, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia, following a comprehensive assessment of the current situation in the host country and the available information regarding safety and security.” Twelve participants were drawn for the gaming tournament that the Saudi city will stage from October 16 to 25.