FIFA World Cup trophy arrives in Washington DC ahead of 2026 final draw

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.