Preparations are progressing at full speed at Washington’s Kennedy Center, a landmark of the city and the designated location for the 2026 World Cup draw, which will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The environment around the venue is already lively: setups, technical run-throughs, FIFA personnel, and international journalists are all engaged in readying for the event that will officially launch the biggest World Cup ever organized.

The ceremony will include delegates from the 42 countries that have qualified so far, as well as teams competing for the final slots in the March playoffs. Ultimately, six teams will secure their places through these playoffs.

READ MORE:Everything you need to know about the World Cup playoffs

With numerous federations gathered simultaneously, the draw is not only a sporting occasion but also a significant moment for football diplomacy and cultural interaction.

Music and entertainment

Anticipation is also high for the entertainment segment. FIFA has designed a program combining spectacle with official proceedings, featuring internationally acclaimed guests. Among them is Italy’s Andrea Bocelli, who will perform at the Kennedy Center in what is expected to be one of the night’s standout highlights.

Sharing the stage will be Robbie Williams and the iconic Village People, leading a musical tribute to American pop culture. This selection is deliberate, as the band is a favorite of US President Donald Trump, who will attend the event as a special invitee of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Trump in attendance

The joint appearance of Trump and Infantino is attracting heightened media focus: it marks the first occasion the former US president has publicly participated in a FIFA event of this magnitude, highlighting how the 2026 World Cup has become a key initiative for North America—not only in sports but also politically and culturally.

On the competitive side, crucial decisions will emerge from the draw itself. The host countries—the US, Mexico, and Canada—will be placed in Pot 1 with the other nine top-ranked teams. This provides a notable advantage by allowing them to avoid facing the strongest teams during the group stage.

The draw will be much more than a simple formality—it represents a crucial moment that will define each nation’s path in the inaugural 48-team World Cup, an edition poised to transform the future and scope of international football.

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