The world’s attention will turn to Washington on Friday as the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place, with United States President Donald Trump expected to play a major role in the high-profile event.
The ceremony will unfold at the prestigious Kennedy Center, marking the first official step toward organizing what will be the largest World Cup ever staged.
The 2026 edition — jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada — will feature 48 nations, a historic expansion from the 32 teams that competed in Qatar in 2022.
A Politically Charged Ceremony
Beyond football, the draw is set to carry heavy political symbolism. President Trump is poised to receive the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, an award FIFA says is meant to recognize individuals who have contributed to unity and global cooperation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has maintained a close working relationship with Trump, is expected to present the honor.
The event will be co-hosted by supermodel Heidi Klum and comedian Kevin Hart, with musical performances from global entertainment names including Robbie Williams, Andrea Bocelli, and the Village People.
Sports icons such as NFL legend Tom Brady, NHL great Wayne Gretzky, and NBA Hall-of-Famer Shaquille O’Neal will assist in conducting the draw.
World Cup Politics and Preparations
President Trump has repeatedly highlighted the World Cup as a flagship moment for his second administration, tying it to the United States’ upcoming 250th independence anniversary.
However, he has sparked controversy for suggesting that matches could be moved away from cities governed by Democrats if security or logistics fall short.
Leaders from Canada and Mexico — Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Claudia Sheinbaum — are expected to attend, underscoring the tri-nation partnership behind the tournament.
Tournament Structure and Team Prospects
The expanded World Cup format will see the 48 qualified nations divided into 12 groups of four, with the top two and eight best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 32.
Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, headline the top-seeded nations.
Messi—who will be 39 during the competition—recently expressed optimism about participating, saying he hopes to lead Argentina once again.
Other top seeds include:
Spain
Brazil
France
Germany
England
Portugal
Netherlands
Belgium
The three host countries will also be placed in the first pot of seeds.
The expansion has paved the way for several debutant nations, including Cape Verde, Jordan, and Curacao.
Additional Drama Ahead of the Draw
Political tensions factored into the event this week when Iran initially threatened to boycott after several members of its delegation were denied U.S. visas.
However, the country’s head coach, Amir Ghalenoei, is now confirmed to attend.
Six tournament spots remain undecided, pending intercontinental playoffs.
Powerful sides like Italy, absent from the last two World Cups, remain potential stumbling blocks for higher-ranked teams.
Due to the size and complexity of the tournament schedule, teams will not learn their detailed match locations and kickoff times until Saturday — one day after the draw.
The 2026 World Cup will open at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and conclude at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.