Las Vegas to host key event in countdown to 2026 World Cup

FIFA has officially announced that the group stage draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place on December 5, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

This draw will determine the matchups for the tournament’s opening stage and is considered a crucial moment in the lead-up to the world’s most-watched football event.

The 2026 edition of the World Cup will be historic, as it will be the first time the tournament features 48 national teams, expanding from the previous format of 32.

These teams will be split into 12 groups of four, with the top-performing teams advancing to the knockout stages.

This World Cup will also be unique in its hosting arrangement.

For the first time in history, three countries the United States, Canada, and Mexico will share responsibilities for organizing and hosting matches. Stadiums across several major cities in all three nations will be used throughout the tournament.

According to FIFA, the opening match of the tournament is scheduled to be played in Mexico City, while the final will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Both cities are expected to draw large crowds of fans from around the globe.

The group stage draw in Las Vegas will be watched closely by participating teams and supporters, as it sets the stage for the tournament beginning in June 2026.

National teams will find out who their opponents will be, as well as where and when their first matches will be played.

More details about the draw ceremony, including the venue and event format, are expected to be released in the coming months.