The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw descended into a spectacle of lengthy performances and celebrity appearances, prompting sharp criticism from BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce, who repeatedly targeted FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
A Draw Overshadowed by Spectacle
The event, held in Washington DC on Friday evening, was scheduled to begin at 5pm GMT. However, after a full hour, only the host nations—the USA, Mexico, and Canada—had been drawn from the pots. The actual mechanics of the 48-team tournament draw took a significant backseat to a series of staged performances and presentations.
Infantino himself took to the stage multiple times, first to welcome attendees and set the scene. The night then featured musical acts and interviews with football legends in the audience. A notable segment involved the presentation of a new FIFA peace prize, which was awarded to American President Donald Trump.
"The Man Knows No Shame": Pearce's Scathing Critique
While the display enamoured some, it left many fans and viewers frustrated by the protracted timeline. BBC's Jonathan Pearce did not hold back in his live commentary, directing several barbs at the FIFA president.
At one point, as Infantino hosted the early proceedings, Pearce remarked, "The man knows no shame." He further criticised the event's pacing, quipping, "Hopefully the draw will be finished in time for the first match in June."
Viewers witnessed several awkward moments, including one where Infantino implored the crowd to chant for the host nations. The draw setup finally began in earnest after one hour and twenty minutes, with comedian Kevin Hart introducing sporting icons like Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, Shaquille O'Neal, and Aaron Judge—a segment Pearce seemed to enjoy more.
Backlash and the Focus on Football
The extensive ceremony has sparked a debate about FIFA's priorities, shifting focus from the sporting anticipation of the draw to a broader, glitzy show. Pearce's candid criticism reflects a sentiment among some football purists who believe the event should centre on the competition itself.
With the draw now complete, attention will slowly turn towards the tournament in 2026, but the memory of this lengthy, controversial event and the stark commentary it provoked is likely to linger.
