Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

2026 World Cup Draw Set for December 5

12/1/2025

50 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place December 5 in Washington, D.C., determining the groups.
Forty-eight teams will be divided into 12 groups.
FIFA will announce venues and kick-off times for all 104 matches.
The tournament will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final on July 19, 2026.
First matches begin on June 11, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 FIFA World Cup, held in the United States from June 17 to July 17, marked a pivotal moment for soccer in North America, attracting over 3.5 million spectators. This event followed the U.S. bid to host the 1986 tournament and led to the establishment of Major League Soccer in 1993, significantly boosting soccer's profile in the region. The upcoming 2026 tournament will expand participation to 48 teams, furthering this legacy.

1 of 2

Story summary

The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place December 5 in Washington, D.C., determining the groups.
Forty-eight teams will be divided into 12 groups.
FIFA will announce venues and kick-off times for all 104 matches.
The tournament will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final on July 19, 2026.
First matches begin on June 11, 2026.

1 / 2