WASHINGTON — The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw takes place Friday in Washington, determining which teams will face each other when the tournament kicks off next summer across North America.

The expanded 48-team tournament will be the largest World Cup in history, with matches scheduled across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Here's everything you need to know.

When is the 2026 World Cup draw?

The draw ceremony begins at 12 p.m. ET (9 a.m. PT) Friday, Dec. 5, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the event alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

The ceremony will determine the composition of 12 groups, with four teams assigned to each group for the tournament's opening stage.

How to watch the 2026

See Full Page