By James Crook

154064818February 28 - FIFA has announced it is searching for a new host for its Women's Under-17 World Cup next year after stadium development and construction in the planned location of Costa Rica fell well behind schedule.

World football's governing body will now search for a new home for the tournament, and recommendations will be put forward to the FIFA Executive Committee at its next meeting in Zurich on March 20 and 21.

"Due to a number of unforeseen circumstances leading to heavy stadium construction delays, FIFA, in agreement with the Costa Rica Football Federation, has had no other option than to relocate the hosting of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup next year," said a statement from FIFA.

"FIFA would like to express its thanks to the Costa Rica Football Association for its efforts and commitment." 

The inaugural Women's Under-17 World Cup, which is held every two years, was hosted in New Zealand and won by North Korea in 2008.

Last year's tournament was held in Azerbaijan, when North Korea were defeated in a penalty shoot-out by France.

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