Uzbekistan Approves Preparatory Measures for the 2027 U-20 FIFA World Cup

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 15 December, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree outlining measures for the preparation and hosting of the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be held in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.

The document sets out the key priorities for organizing the tournament, including holding competitions at a high international standard, creating infrastructure in compliance with FIFA requirements, ensuring comfortable conditions for teams and fans, and strengthening the country’s international image through hosting one of football’s most prestigious youth tournaments.

The decree notes that the decision to host the U-20 World Cup in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan was made by the FIFA Council on 2 October 2025. Accordingly, the composition of the Organizing Committee and a comprehensive tournament preparation program have been approved. Coordination of all activities is entrusted to the Organizing Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, who has been granted authority to make operational decisions.

The Organizing Committee will oversee stadium and training facility modernization, the installation of modern telecommunications systems, the organization of participant entry and exit, visa procedures, transportation and medical support, as well as volunteer programs. Particular attention is given to uninterrupted energy supply and the improvement of regions hosting matches.

The decree also outlines measures for the transportation of participants and spectators, including the organization of special bus routes between Tashkent and New Tashkent, as well as free public transport access on match days for accredited personnel and ticket holders.

The Uzbekistan Football Association has been tasked with ensuring that the under-construction Central Stadium “Yangi Toshkent” meets FIFA and Asian Football Confederation standards, and, together with the Ministry of Sports, to organize presentations of the tournament’s official symbols and a nationwide U-20 World Cup tour.

Funding for the tournament’s preparation will be allocated in the state budget for 2026–2027. Personal responsibility for implementing the decree rests with the Minister of Sports, the leadership of the Uzbekistan Football Association, and the Hokim of Tashkent, while overall oversight is assigned to the Prime Minister and the Presidential Representative for Sports Affairs.