- The World Cup draw will happen on Dec 5, 2025 at the Kennedy Center, Washington, D.C.
- Trump and Infantino announced the event; Trump may participate in the draw.
- Washington is not a host city but serves as FIFA’s main U.S. office.
- The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- 42 teams will be qualified by the draw, with 6 spots decided in March 2026 playoffs.
- The event marks a key milestone in the buildup to the first tri-nation World Cup.
The final draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
The announcement was made by U.S. President Donald Trump alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with the ceremony scheduled for 12:00 PM ET and broadcast live to fans worldwide.
During a special event at the Oval Office, President Trump described the draw as “possibly the biggest event in sports.” He was presented with the World Cup trophy and hinted that he might personally participate in pulling the team names.
FIFA’s Gianni Infantino welcomed the excitement but clarified that Trump’s role in the draw is not yet final.
Although Washington is not among the 16 cities hosting World Cup matches, it secured the draw as the Kennedy Centre undergoes a $257 million renovation ahead of the U.S. bicentennial.
The venue will also serve as FIFA’s main World Cup office in the U.S., giving it a symbolic role in the tournament’s organisation.
The 2026 tournament will be the largest World Cup ever, with 48 teams competing in 104 matches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
By the time of the draw, 42 teams will have qualified, while the final six spots will be decided through playoff matches in March 2026.
The draw will set the group-stage lineups and act as a major milestone in the buildup to the first World Cup hosted by three countries.
Officials say the draw will highlight Washington’s involvement despite not hosting matches and showcase football’s global reach, building excitement as teams prepare for the historic tournament.
