The FIFA World Cup trophy has touched down in Washington DC, sparking excitement across the US capital as anticipation builds for the Final Draw of the 2026 tournament.

Trophy Tour & Venue Reveal


  • The trophy visited several of Washington’s iconic landmarks before being showcased at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

  • Preparations are in full swing at the venue, which will host Friday’s major event.

  • Media were given an exclusive first look inside the draw hall, guided by FIFA Legend Rio Ferdinand, who will co-host the ceremony.

 

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Hosts & Star Power


  • Rio Ferdinand (former England captain) and Samantha Johnson (award-winning broadcaster) will lead the draw ceremony.

  • Sporting icons adding glamour as draw assistants include:

    • Tom Brady (NFL legend)

    • Wayne Gretzky (ice hockey great)

    • Aaron Judge (MLB star)

    • Shaquille O’Neal (NBA Hall of Famer)

  • Eli Manning will host the red-carpet arrivals, ensuring a star-studded spectacle.

The Biggest World Cup in History


  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

  • Featuring 48 nations, it will be the largest edition of the tournament ever staged.

  • Friday’s draw will determine the match schedule, setting the stage for a global football extravaganza.

This glamorous build-up — blending football tradition with American star power — reflects the scale and ambition of what promises to be the biggest World Cup in history.