The road to the biggest FIFA World Cup in history has its next milestone. On Friday, December 5, 2025, the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup 26 will take place at the prestigious John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.
The announcement was made at the White House by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, confirming that the U.S. capital will be the stage where the world discovers the group stage matchups for next summer’s 48-team tournament across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
A Historic Venue for a Historic Moment
The Kennedy Center, America’s national cultural center and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, will welcome team delegations, FIFA officials, ambassadors, global media, and fans from the 16 Host Cities. The venue, recently renovated as part of the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations, will also house the FIFA World Cup’s main operational office.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy will take center stage as national teams learn their group stage fate, setting the course toward the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026.
Fans at the Heart of the Celebration
For the first time ever, fans from all 16 Host Cities will be able to enter a special lottery for free admission to the Final Draw, with selected winners receiving exclusive VIP experiences. This initiative ensures that supporters are part of the journey from the very beginning.
A Global Broadcast Event
The draw begins at 12:00 PM local time (18:00 CET) and will be broadcast worldwide through FIFA’s official media partners. Full details of procedures and broadcast information will be released on FIFA.com in the coming weeks.
Countdown to Kick-Off
By the time of the draw, 42 of the 48 teams will already be confirmed, including hosts USA, Mexico, and Canada, reigning champions Argentina, football giants Brazil, Japan, Korea Republic, and debutants Jordan and Uzbekistan. The final six spots will be decided in March 2026 through FIFA’s new intercontinental play-off tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “We are excited to host the most anticipated Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup in history in the cultural and entertainment heart of the United States, the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. This draw is a major milestone that continues the build-up to the biggest sporting event ever. We look forward to welcoming delegations, global media, and fans from all 16 Host Cities for this historic occasion.”
From the draw in Washington to the opening match at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City on June 11, 2026, the journey to the world’s most spectacular sporting event is officially underway.
