WASHINGTON: The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 draw will take place on Friday at the prestigious Kennedy Center, officially setting the stage for the biggest edition of the tournament in history. Hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded lineup of 48 teams.
The draw ceremony begins at 12 p.m. ET, while fans in Pakistan can tune in at 10 p.m. Pakistan Standard Time.
Infantino and Trump Expected at the Ceremony
FIFA President Gianni Infantino will address attendees during the 90-minute event, which will also include musical segments and light-hearted sketches.
US President Donald Trump is also expected to have a major role during the ceremony, adding to the global attention around the event.
Draw to Finalize Group Stage for Historic 48-Team Format
The draw will determine the opponents for each team in the tournament’s expanded format. For the first time, 48 teams will be divided into 12 groups of four, making the 2026 World Cup the largest ever.
In the group stage, the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams will qualify for the knockout rounds.
42 Teams Confirmed; Six Spots Still Up for Grabs
A total of 42 nations have already secured qualification, while six more teams—including Italy—will compete in playoffs in March 2026 to claim the final berths. Ahead of the draw, FIFA will present a brief introduction to all teams that have reached the final qualification stage.
Opening Match in Mexico; Final in New York/New Jersey
The tournament will kick off on 11 June 2026 with hosts Mexico playing the opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The grand finale is scheduled for 19 July 2026 at the New York/New Jersey venue, promising one of the most-watched sporting moments of the year.
The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially underway as the world awaits the group allocations that will shape the path to football’s biggest prize.
