The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw for the expanded 48-team tournament is set for December 5, 2025, in Las Vegas, marking the start of group-stage matchups across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With the draw set for December 5 in Las Vegas, stakeholders—from federations to broadcasters to American fans—can begin targeting FIFA World Cup 2026 group‐stage storylines and travel arrangements.
The United States (main host), Canada, and Mexico — this is the first World Cup to be hosted by three countries and the first with 48 teams (up from 32) from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
16 cities across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, including iconic venues like Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca (opening match) and New York/New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium (final).
All the FIFA World Cup 2026 teams will be divided into 12 groups of 4. The top two teams, plus eight third-placed teams, advance to the knockout stage, making a total of 32 teams in the knockouts. This new format ensures more matches (104 total) and high drama on the road to the title.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw Date, Venue, and Broadcast
Table of Contents
- Date: December 5, 2025
- Time: Prime‐time U.S. evening slot (local Pacific Time)
- Location: A landmark venue in Las Vegas (exact site TBA)
- Streaming: Live on FIFA+ and major sports networks (ESPN, TUDN)
- Teams: A total of 13 teams have already confirmed their spot. The qualified team list and format are current as of August 1, 2025.
Las Vegas was selected after venues in Canada and Mexico were ruled out. This marks the second time Sin City hosts a World Cup draw, echoing the 1994 ceremony at the Las Vegas Convention Centre.
Pots and Seeding Criteria
The draw divides 48 teams into 12 groups (A–L) of four teams each. Teams are allocated into four Pots based on the FIFA World Ranking at the time of the draw:
| Pot | Composition |
|---|---|
| 1 | Host nations (USA, Canada, Mexico) + top 9 ranked teams |
| 2 | Next 12 highest‐ranked teams |
| 3 | Teams ranked 25–36 |
| 4 | Teams ranked 37–48 |
Note: Hosts occupy top positions in Groups A, D, and G (USA, Canada, Mexico, respectively).
FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw Mechanics
- Pot 1 is drawn first, allocating each host and top‐seeded team to Groups A–L in order.
- Pots 2–4 are then drawn sequentially, one team per group, following geographic and confederation separation rules to avoid early clashes.
- Computer assistance ensures that no group includes two teams from the same confederation (except UEFA, with a maximum of two) while adhering to travel and winter-venue restrictions.
Why is the FIFA World Cup 2026 so special?
- Local Angle: Highlight Las Vegas as the host city—capitalise on high local search interest, U.S. development, business opportunities, sponsorships, transportation, and blogger engagement. The Las Vegas World Cup draw or Vegas FIFA draw 2026 offers ample space for everyone.
- Streaming Info: Outline where U.S. fans can watch live—“FIFA+ live stream,” “ESPN World Cup draw coverage.”
- Draw Impact: Preview potential marquee matchups—“Group of Death predictions,” “USA group stage opponents.”
Strategic Analysis for FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw
- Venue Selection Impact: Las Vegas’ world‐class entertainment infrastructure positions FIFA to maximise spectacle, sponsorship, and global viewership.
- Timing Considerations: Early December draw allows teams and broadcasters ample preparation time for travel logistics and promotional campaigns.
- Fan Engagement: Hosting the draw in Sin City, a world-renowned tourism hotspot, offers exciting opportunities for fan experiences, ranging from draw-themed events on the Strip to engaging digital activities for remote fans.
