Former President Donald Trump announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Learn why this venue was chosen, reactions from fans, and what it means for the tournament.

President Donald Trump Announces World Cup 2026 Draw Will Take Place at Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

In a historic announcement that blends sports, politics, and culture, former President Donald Trump confirmed that the official draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The decision has generated significant buzz, as the 2026 tournament will be one of the largest and most anticipated World Cups in history, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The World Cup draw is one of the most crucial milestones on the road to the global event, as it determines the groups and matchups that millions of fans across the globe will follow with passion and excitement. By selecting the Kennedy Center, a venue symbolic of both culture and prestige, Trump’s announcement underscores the significance of the World Cup coming to North America for the first time since 1994.

The Significance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be unlike any other in the tournament’s history. For the first time, the competition will feature 48 national teams instead of 32, a change designed to increase global participation and create more thrilling matchups. With 80 matches scheduled across three host nations, the scale of the event is unprecedented.

The United States will host the majority of the games, including the semifinals and final, while Mexico and Canada will also host key matches. Major U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, and Philadelphia are preparing to welcome soccer fans from every corner of the globe.

The draw ceremony, therefore, plays a vital role in setting the stage for the competition. It will decide not only which teams face off in the group stages but also where those matches will take place. For players, coaches, and fans alike, the draw is the moment when dreams become reality.

Why the Kennedy Center?

The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. is one of America’s most iconic venues. Known primarily as a hub for performing arts, theater, and cultural events, the choice of the Kennedy Center for the World Cup draw highlights the blending of sport and culture on a global stage.

The venue’s location in the U.S. capital also carries political and symbolic weight. Hosting the draw in Washington emphasizes the central role of the United States in organizing and managing the largest World Cup in history. Trump, who has often tied American culture and sports together in his speeches, described the Kennedy Center as “a place of greatness, history, and pride” that matches the importance of the World Cup.

Trump’s Announcement and Reactions

Speaking at a press briefing, Trump stated:

“The World Cup is the biggest sporting event in the world, and it’s coming right here to North America. I am very proud to announce that the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., will host the official draw for the 2026 World Cup. It’s going to be historic, and the whole world will be watching.”

Reactions to the announcement have been mixed but largely positive. Sports analysts praised the choice of venue, calling it an inspired decision that elevates the cultural importance of the event. Soccer fans expressed excitement on social media, with many pointing out that Washington, D.C., is an accessible and symbolic location for such a monumental occasion.

However, some critics argued that the decision reflects Trump’s tendency to link sports with politics. Still, many agree that the Kennedy Center offers a world-class setting for an event that will attract global attention.

The Road to the Draw

The World Cup draw is expected to take place in late 2025, giving FIFA, the U.S. Soccer Federation, and local organizers ample time to prepare. The ceremony will feature representatives from all 48 qualified nations, along with international celebrities, former players, and global media.

Preparations are already underway to ensure the event is both secure and spectacular. With the eyes of the world on Washington, organizers are promising a show that blends American culture with the spirit of global football.

The Importance of the Draw for Teams and Fans

For soccer nations, the draw is not just a formality—it is often seen as the first real challenge of the tournament. A favorable draw can significantly boost a team’s chances of advancing, while a tough group can make qualification extremely difficult.

Fans eagerly anticipate the draw to see which matches they might attend and which rivalries may be reignited on the world stage. Matchups such as Brazil vs. Argentina, Germany vs. Italy, or USA vs. Mexico could be determined during the event, fueling anticipation months before the tournament begins.

Washington, D.C., as a Global Stage

Washington, D.C., has long been known as a political capital, but hosting the World Cup draw provides the city with an opportunity to showcase its cultural and international side. Beyond the Kennedy Center, the city is preparing to host fans with special events, fan zones, and celebrations that highlight both American hospitality and global unity through sport.

Tourism officials expect a surge in international visitors around the draw, as fans from across the world will travel to the U.S. capital to witness history. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are preparing for what could be one of the city’s busiest sporting events outside of the tournament itself.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The World Cup is more than just a tournament—it is a celebration of global unity, culture, and passion for the world’s most popular sport. Trump’s announcement ensures that the lead-up to the 2026 event begins with an unforgettable moment at the Kennedy Center.

With preparations intensifying across North America, soccer fans can expect the 2026 World Cup to deliver not only thrilling matches but also cultural and social experiences that transcend the game itself.

As the world counts down to 2026, all eyes will first turn to Washington, D.C., where the groups, rivalries, and storylines will officially begin to take shape at the draw ceremony.