Azerbaijan, which has extensive experience in hosting international sporting competitions, is hosting another major football tournament.

Axar.az reports that the first-ever FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival is being held in Baku.

Hosting this prestigious competition in Azerbaijan is the result of the state sports policy pursued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, consistent reforms in the sector, efforts to develop modern sports infrastructure, and the expansion of international cooperation.

In line with the President’s decree on measures related to hosting the first-ever U-15 boys’ football World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan in 2026, preparations for the tournament have been carried out to a high standard.

All the necessary infrastructure has been established at the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex to ensure the smooth staging of the matches.

Nearly 1,000 matches will be played across the complex’s 10 football pitches as part of the tournament.

Around 4,000 young footballers, coaches and officials representing FIFA member associations from 189 countries are taking part in the event.