The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw on Friday signals the official start of an exciting journey for national teams from every continent. Each country taking part is hoping to lift the treasured golden trophy next summer, and the draw will determine the first steps on that path. The event is set for noon ET at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, where FIFA President Gianni Infantino will oversee the lottery that reveals the opening stage matchups.
During the World Cup draw, Infantino will select balls that represent each qualified nation from four separate pots. Each pot contains twelve teams and the selections will be used to form the round robin groups for the tournament’s opening phase. These groups will shape the early competition as teams battle for points and placement. Only the top two nations from each group will progress to the final elimination stage, where the pressure intensifies and every match becomes a do or die contest.
Understanding the FIFA 2026 World Cup Draw and Group Selection Process
This edition of the FIFA World Cup is unique because it is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. It marks the first time in history that three nations have shared hosting responsibilities. Leaders of all three host countries are scheduled to attend the World Cup draw, including United States President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The event will also feature appearances from several well known athletes who will assist with the selection process. Among them are Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, Aaron Judge and Shaquille O Neal. Their participation adds star power to an already high profile moment in global sports.
The 2026 tournament is also notable for its expansion. The field has increased from thirty two nations to forty eight, allowing four countries to make their World Cup debut. Cabo Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan will compete on the world stage for the very first time. With more teams and matches, the upcoming event promises greater drama and wider international representation.
Interest in the tournament is already immense. More than six million tickets have been sold as the United States prepares to co host what is expected to be one of the most watched sporting events in history. Matches will take place at sixteen venues across North America from June 11 to July 19.
What to Expect From the FIFA 2026 World Cup Draw and Groups
During a press briefing on Thursday, Sean Duffy, the United States secretary of transportation, explained that the government is working to strengthen transportation networks ahead of the tournament. He emphasized the importance of ensuring smooth travel for fans. He noted that additional transit assets will be deployed to move visitors safely and efficiently between hotels and stadiums throughout the event.
The opening match will be held on Friday June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where the United States team will take the field. Group stage competition will run across all three host nations during the first two weeks. The elimination rounds begin with the round of thirty two, followed by the semifinals in Dallas and Atlanta. The grand final is scheduled for Sunday July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This World Cup draw marks the first major step toward a summer filled with intense matches and unforgettable moments.
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Source: abcnews
