The FIFA World Cup trophy arrived in Washington, D.C. on December 4, 2025, ahead of Friday's highly anticipated draw ceremony for the 2026 tournament. The iconic prize was showcased at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, drawing global attention as 42 of 48 qualifying teams prepare to learn their group stage opponents.
Former England captain Rio Ferdinand and broadcaster Samantha Johnson will lead the historic 48-team draw on December 5, with sports legends including Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, and Shaquille O'Neal participating in the star-studded event. The ceremony will finalize groupings for matches across 16 host cities in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Pots 1 through 4 reveal competitive dynamics: Powerhouses like Argentina, France, and Brazil occupy Pot 1, while teams such as Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Senegal fill Pot 2. Six remaining slots will be decided through 2026 playoffs. This marks the first World Cup featuring 48 teams and three host nations, promising unprecedented global engagement.
