The global football spotlight shifts to Washington D.C. today for the official draw of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a landmark ceremony that will see U.S. President Donald Trump take a prominent role.
The event, held at the Kennedy Center, marks a significant step for the first-ever 48-team World Cup, set to be hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
President Trump, who has cultivated a close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, is expected to be a central figure. Reports indicate he will receive the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during the ceremony for his efforts in “uniting people.”
The draw itself will be a star-studded affair, co-hosted by model Heidi Klum and comedian Kevin Hart, with sports icons like Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, and Shaquille O’Neal assisting. Performances by Andrea Bocelli and Robbie Williams are also scheduled.
Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, head the list of top seeds. The expanded format introduces 12 groups of four, with the top two and eight best third-placed teams advancing to a new 32-team knockout stage.
Tag: FIFA World Cup 2026, World Cup Draw, Donald Trump, Soccer, USA 2026, Gianni Infantino
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