“The Biggest Event in Sport”: Trump Announces 2026 World Cup Draw in Washington

2026 FIFA World Cup Draw Set for Washington, D.C. This December

In a significant update for global football fans, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially announced that the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in Washington, D.C., this coming December. The highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place at the prestigious John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 5, 2026.

US, Canada, Mexico World Cup Host

This draw marks a critical milestone in the build-up to what is expected to be the largest World Cup in history, with 48 nations competing for the first time—an expansion from the traditional 32 teams. The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making it the first World Cup to be staged across three countries in North America.

Initially, speculation suggested that Las Vegas would be the host city for the draw, following in the footsteps of the 1994 World Cup, when the United States last held the tournament. However, Washington, D.C., ultimately won the honor, and the Kennedy Center—where President Trump serves as chairman—will provide a fitting backdrop for the global spectacle.

2026 World Cup draw, The Biggest Event in Sport

“This is arguably the biggest sporting event in the world,” Trump remarked during the official announcement. “It’s not just a game; it’s a celebration of cultures, unity, and the beautiful game that brings the world together.”

Joining President Trump at the White House for the announcement was FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who proudly displayed the iconic World Cup trophy. Infantino emphasized the draw’s global impact and scale, stating, “This event will be watched by over one billion viewers around the globe. With 48 teams and 104 matches, it will be like experiencing 104 Super Bowls—truly historic.”

In a lighthearted moment during the news conference, Infantino offered President Trump a chance to hold the World Cup trophy. “Can I keep it?” Trump joked, sparking laughter from those in attendance.

48-team World Cup

The 2026 World Cup draw format will divide the 48 national teams into 12 groups of four. From there, the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-place teams, will advance to the knockout rounds, creating a thrilling path toward the final.

As preparations ramp up for what promises to be a groundbreaking tournament, the December draw will play a pivotal role in shaping the competition’s narrative. It will set the stage for matchups, fuel national rivalries, and excite millions of fans worldwide.

With the global football community’s attention turning toward Washington, D.C., this winter, the 2026 World Cup draw is not just a procedural event—it’s the kickoff to a tournament that will redefine international soccer.