Donald Trump Confirmed to Attend 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw
US President Donald Trump is set to play a prominent role in the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This highly anticipated event will take place on December 3, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The 2026 World Cup marks a historic milestone as the largest edition of the tournament, expanding from 32 teams to 48 teams.
2026 FIFA World Cup Overview
The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This event is not only significant for football enthusiasts but also coincides with the 250th anniversary of US independence.
Trump’s Involvement and FIFA Relations
Trump’s attendance at the draw was confirmed by the White House. His close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino has drawn considerable attention. Infantino has frequently visited the White House and collaborated with Trump since the North American bid for the World Cup was awarded in 2018.
During the draw, Trump is expected to be honored as the inaugural recipient of a new FIFA Peace Prize, showcasing his valued rapport with FIFA.
Political Context and Global Tensions
The World Cup draw has not been without controversy. Iran has announced its decision to boycott the event due to visa denials for its delegation members by US authorities. This political dimension adds a layer of complexity to the global celebration of football.
Teams and Tournament Format
The expanded tournament will include several first-time qualifiers, such as Cape Verde, Jordan, and Curacao. The draw will categorize teams into 12 groups, with top seeds including:
- Argentina
- USA
- Mexico
- Canada
- Brazil
- France
- Germany
- Spain
- England
- Portugal
- The Netherlands
- Belgium
The opening match is scheduled for the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, a historic venue that previously hosted the finals in 1970 and 1986. The tournament will conclude at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Ticket Prices and Economic Considerations
Fans may face significant ticket prices due to FIFA’s dynamic pricing strategy. Reports indicate that tickets for the July 19 final are already starting at approximately $7,000 on secondary market platforms like StubHub and SeatGeek. Supporters have expressed concern regarding the affordability of attending popular matches.
As the draw approaches, anticipation grows for what promises to be a remarkable and transformative World Cup experience.
