U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw would take place on December 5 at the Kennedy Centre in Washington, D.C., describing it as “probably the biggest event in sports,” Joined by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the Oval Office, Trump’s announcement highlighted the event’s significance for his presidency and the U.S. as a co-host with Canada and Mexico.
Officials will hold the draw for the 48-team tournament’s group-stage matchups at the Kennedy Centre, which Trump recently took over as part of his push against “woke” culture. Infantino presented Trump with the World Cup trophy and joked, “Only winners can touch it,” prompting Trump to quip, “Can I keep it?” Infantino also gave Trump a ceremonial ticket for the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. Organisers expect the event, which marks a shift from earlier plans to host it in Las Vegas, to draw 1 billion viewers.
President Trump announces the 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC pic.twitter.com/p9bdyNYKNt
— CSPAN (@cspan) August 22, 2025Trump, who secured the 2026 World Cup hosting rights during his first term in 2018, emphasised the tournament’s economic impact, projecting $30 billion in revenue and 185,000 jobs, per Reuters. His administration’s visa policies, easing access for most fans but restricting travellers from 12 nations like Afghanistan, were noted. Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Centre, which he hinted at renaming the “Trump-Kennedy Centre,” and a federal crime crackdown with National Guard deployment aim to ensure safety for visitors.
Trump Announces Kennedy Center Will Host 2026 World Cup Draw https://t.co/t4Nc3OL5Kx https://t.co/zb5d2AqRhF
— Forbes (@Forbes) August 22, 2025Trump suggested Russian President Vladimir Putin might attend the final, depending on the Ukraine peace talks, adding a geopolitical angle. Infantino’s close ties with Trump, evident when Chelsea won the FIFA Club World Cup in July 2025, underscore the event’s diplomatic weight. The draw’s broadcast, a mix of entertainment and ceremony, will set the stage for the first three-nation World Cup with 104 matches.
As preparations for the December 5 draw intensify, the Kennedy Centre elevates Washington’s global profile. With ticket applications opening on September 10, FIFA encourages fans to stay updated through its website. The event promises to launch the 2026 World Cup with grandeur, reflecting Trump’s vision for a high-profile presidency.
