WASHINGTON, DC (WSAU) — Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hit a major milestone Friday with the tournament draw, setting the roadmap towards crowning soccer’s world champion next July.

The draw for next year’s FIFA World Cup took place at the Kennedy Centre in Washington DC, the USA, which is one of the co-hosts of the tournament. The ceremony drew all 48 teams in their respective groups.

The three host nation leaders are expected to meet in Washington DC on Friday for the tournament's final draw.

The eyes of the soccer (football) world will turn to Washington, D.C. this week as the city hosts the official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event marks a major moment ahead of the largest World Cup in history,

The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw confirmed co-hosts Mexico and Canada will play the opening match. The 12 groups were set, featuring clashes like Brazil vs Morocco and France vs Senegal. The final will be at New York-New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.

We take a big step towards the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA next year, with the group stage draw taking place today in Washington D.C.The 48-team tournament will kick off at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday,

Hosting the World Cup alongside the review process of the USMCA in 2026 offers a unique chance for the North American neighbors to reinforce economic ties.