KEY POINTS
- The 2026 World Cup draw will be the largest, with 48 teams, 64 matches, and three host countries.
- Trump will take centre stage, adding a political edge to the entertainment-heavy event.
- Global icons Messi and Ronaldo’s presence will heighten excitement as the draw determines World Cup matchups.
WASHINGTON: The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw will happen this Friday in Washington, and it promises to be more than just a football event.
US President Donald Trump, football legends Messi and Ronaldo, and leaders from various countries will be part of the ceremony, making it one of the most star-studded and politically charged draws in World Cup history.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will start on June 8, 2026. The tournament will be held across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will be the first World Cup featuring 48 teams, making it the largest in history.
Heidi Klum Hosts with Global Stars
Supermodel Heidi Klum and comedian Kevin Hart will host the glitzy ceremony, which will feature a string of performances from international stars like Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, and Nicole Scherzinger.
The Village People will provide the closing performance with their iconic “YMCA,” ensuring the night ends on a nostalgic note.
With Trump, Messi, and Ronaldo in attendance, this will undoubtedly be one of the most star-packed events in World Cup history.
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More Games, More Drama
The FIFA 2026 World Cup will be larger than ever, with 48 teams competing across 64 matches. The expanded tournament guarantees more drama, more fans, and a much bigger spectacle.
The new format includes a “tennis-seed” style draw, which could affect team matchups and potentially give England a better chance of avoiding top-ranked teams early on.
With the additional games, FIFA is also introducing dynamic pricing for tickets, raising the stakes for fans looking to attend.
Expect prices to skyrocket for high-profile matches featuring stars like Messi, Ronaldo, and possibly Trump, whose influence will certainly elevate the draw’s global appeal.



