The spectacle of the 2026 World Cup begins not on the pitch, but on the stage, as a uniquely star-studded draw ceremony prepares to reveal the tournament's group stage fate. In a remarkable blend of global politics and sport, former US President Donald Trump is set to take centre stage at the Kennedy Centre in Washington on Friday.
A Draw Unlike Any Other
This is no ordinary football ceremony. The event, due to start at 12 noon and expected to run well beyond 90 minutes, will feature a line-up more akin to a major awards show. Alongside Trump's anticipated address, performances are scheduled from Robbie Williams and opera legend Andrea Bocelli, while the Village People will perform their hit 'YMCA'.
The draw itself will be conducted by former England defender Rio Ferdinand, alongside broadcaster Samantha Johnson. They will be assisted by a roster of American sporting royalty, including NFL icon Tom Brady, basketball great Shaquille O'Neal, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, and baseball star Aaron Judge.
England's Path to Glory
For England manager Thomas Tuchel, who will be in the audience, the focus is firmly on football. He will learn the Three Lions' initial opponents for the expanded 48-team tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. In a significant new format, a tennis-style seeding system means top nations like England, France, Argentina, and Spain will be kept apart. This ensures they cannot meet until the semi-finals, provided each wins their group.
Potential group stage opponents for England include home nations rival Scotland, managed by Steve Clarke, as well as Norway. Ecuador are tipped as potential dark horses for the summer.
"It is bold, different and adds to the excitement of the pathway. You can plot your path. It is good," the format has been described, having been trialled successfully at last year's Club World Cup.
Trump's Return to the Spotlight
Trump's involvement marks a surreal full circle. In 1991, he drew the balls for the fifth round of the Rumbelows Cup on the 'Saint and Greavsie' TV show from Trump Tower. Thirty-four years on, his role is vastly more prominent. FIFA is also expected to present him with its new "Peace Prize – Football Unites the World" award, recognising his work in brokering a Middle East ceasefire.
The ceremony's complexity is such that it requires an unprecedented "extra time" session on Saturday. While groups will be known on Friday, the specific match schedules, kick-off times, and venues will only be confirmed after a second glitzy event at 5pm UK time on Saturday, presided over by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Broadcasters are already planning for prime European viewing slots for the continent's biggest teams, a factor that may influence which of the North American stadiums—some with roofs and air conditioning—host their matches.
With managers like Carlo Ancelotti of Brazil, Didier Deschamps of France, and Portugal's Roberto Martinez also in attendance, the football world will finally have its roadmap for the 2026 spectacle. After the showbiz fades, England and their fans can start plotting a serious course for what they hope will be a historic summer.
