Before the World Cup kicks off next summer, all 48 teams, including the U.S. men’s national team, along with co-hosts Canada and Mexico, need to be aware of their opponents, the cities they’ll be playing in, and their journey to the finals.
What’s the current status? It’s time to prepare for the World Cup draw.
When and Where Will the Draw Occur?
The World Cup draw is scheduled for Friday, December 5, at 12:00 PM ET/9:00 AM PT, taking place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.
How to Watch the Event?
Fans can watch the draw live on FOX, as well as streaming through FOX One, FOXSports.com, and the FOX Sports app. Coverage will start at 11:30 AM ET/8:30 AM PT with a live pre-show, and the actual drawing will take place from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM ET. After the draw, FOX will continue live coverage until 3:00 PM ET, offering immediate analysis, reactions, and interviews.
Which Teams Are Participating in the Draw?
As of now, 42 of the 48 teams have qualified for the World Cup, with the final six spots to be filled in March. The draw on December 5 will establish the 12 groups of four teams. Given the complexity of the lottery process, we’re joining USMNT icon and FOX Sports Soccer Analyst Alexi Lalas for a full breakdown of what to expect.
When Will the World Cup Take Place?
The tournament is set to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, culminating in the finals at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Fans can expect comprehensive World Cup coverage through the FOX family of networks and the FOX Sports app, including live matches, highlights, commentary, and full game replays.
This news is crucial for soccer enthusiasts as it outlines the road to one of the biggest sporting events in the world. The anticipation built through the draw not only impacts team strategies but also ignites the passion and excitement within the fanbase leading up to the tournaments.
