What major coups did FIFA pull off with Morocco and Qatar?

FIFA has pulled off a huge coup by securing hosts for the next five editions of the revamped Under-17 World Cups across both the men's and women's games.

In a ground-breaking announcement, world football's governing body confirmed the men's U17 World Cup will be increasing to a 48-team format from 2025 and held annually rather than biennially.

And in a major show of faith, Qatar has won the rights to stage the first five editions of the expanded tournament between 2025 and 2029.

It follows the Gulf nation's successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with their existing world-class infrastructure perfectly suited.

Not to be outdone, the women's U17 World Cup is also undergoing a revamp, increasing to 24 teams played yearly from 2025 onwards.

Morocco has landed hosting rights for the opening five years of that competition through to 2029 in another big win for African football.

The dual decisions provide both nations with incredible opportunities to build on their investment in mega-events and grassroots development.

For Qatar, it reaffirms its status as a global hub for the world's biggest tournaments in the post-World Cup era.

While Morocco's hosting confirms their vision for growing the women's game is being richly rewarded by FIFA's leadership.

Speaking on the announcements, FIFA president Gianni Infantino hailed the move as reinforcing their "commitment to making football truly global".

With over 170 youth matches to be held annually, it promises an unprecedented year-round bonanza for travelling fans across the Arab world to experience the next generation of superstars.