WASHINGTON (AP) — The World Cup draw began Friday with U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney selecting the balls of their own countries from bowls during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

There was little suspense to the start of the draw for the expanded 48-nation tournament, given that FIFA assigned the three co-hosts to their groups in February 2024.

On a wintry day with snow falling, soccer officials and celebrities filled the hall, 189 days to go before the expanded 48-nation, 104-game tournament.

There were long lines outside the complex even at 7 a.m. as workers and media filed through with Secret Service agents securing the area.

Earlier in the ceremony, FIFA awarded its first peace prize t

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