North Korea Withdraws from 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Background

North Korea has a history of participation in the FIFA World Cup, having qualified twice in 1966 and 2010. In their debut appearance in 1966, North Korea made a remarkable run to the quarter-finals, becoming the first Asian men's team to achieve this feat.

Withdrawal from 2022 Qualifiers

According to recent reports, North Korea has officially withdrawn from the qualifying tournament for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The team was set to participate in next month's qualifiers, but concerns over COVID-19 travel restrictions and the health of players are said to have prompted the decision.

FIFA's Response

FIFA has not yet issued an official statement on North Korea's withdrawal. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously expressed a desire to unite the world through soccer, including hosting a World Cup in North Korea. The potential impact of North Korea's withdrawal on FIFA's plans remains to be seen.

Implications for North Korea

The withdrawal from the 2022 World Cup qualifiers is a setback for North Korea's soccer program. It will deny the team the opportunity to compete at the highest level and gain international experience. The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will likely pose similar challenges for North Korea, as it will involve matches in countries with strict COVID-19 travel restrictions.