The highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup draw now has a confirmed date and venue, revealed unexpectedly on Friday. U.S. President Donald Trump, joined by Vice President JD Vance and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, announced from the Oval Office that the event would be held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on December 5th at 12 p.m. ET. Reports had previously indicated Las Vegas as the likely host, but moving the draw to the nation`s capital ensures Washington, D.C.`s involvement, even though it won`t host any matches next summer.
During the Oval Office announcement, President Trump was seen wearing a red `Trump Was Right About Everything` hat. FIFA President Infantino presented Trump with tickets, with the World Cup trophy prominently displayed on the president`s desk. In a lighthearted moment, reminiscent of his interaction with the Club World Cup trophy, Trump jokingly inquired if he could keep it.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to host the most anticipated Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup in history at the cultural and entertainment heart of the United States, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.” He emphasized the draw`s significance as a major tournament milestone, furthering the impressive build-up to what is expected to be the largest sporting event ever. Infantino added that FIFA anticipates welcoming team delegations, partners, global media, and, uniquely, fans representing all 16 host cities to the U.S. capital for this pivotal event.
The draw marks the official commencement of detailed planning for the upcoming summer tournament. It`s at this stage that all 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico will finally learn which teams they will be hosting. Although initial preparations are already in motion, especially following the Club World Cup earlier this summer, crucial aspects like language services can only be finalized once the participating teams are confirmed.
In addition to the host nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—ten other countries have already secured their spots in the 2026 World Cup: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Ecuador, New Zealand, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, and Uzbekistan. The December draw will determine the placement of these and 42 more teams. The final six spots will be filled through playoff matches scheduled to be held in the United States in March 2026.
For the 1994 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, the draw was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This time, the Kennedy Center, now under Trump`s purview, provides a setting where he can play a significant role in shaping the event. As the chair of the White House Task Force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Trump is poised to be a central figure in organizing what is anticipated to be the most highly attended World Cup in history.
