Football’s grandest stage edges closer as FIFA has confirmed that the final draw for the 2026 World Cup will take place on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The iconic venue will provide a fittingly prestigious setting for one of the sport’s most symbolic traditions.
The 2026 tournament marks a historic expansion to 48 teams, split into 12 groups of four, as Canada, Mexico, and the United States co-host the event across three nations for the first time in history.
The draw will shape the pathway for teams into this new format, setting up fresh narratives and rivalries.
So far, 13 nations have booked their place alongside the hosts:
CONCACAF: Canada, Mexico, United States (hosts)
CONMEBOL: Argentina, Brazil, EcuadorAFC: Japan, Iran, Australia, South Korea, Jordan, Uzbekistan
OFC: New Zealand (qualified), New Caledonia (play-offs)
CAF (Africa) and UEFA (Europe) are still deep in qualifying campaigns, with spots to be decided in 2025 and early 2026.
The final two berths will come through the high-stakes inter-confederation play-offs in March 2026.
With 35 slots still up for grabs, the Washington draw will be more than just a ceremony – it will be the launchpad for dreams, drama, and destiny on football’s ultimate global stage.
