From football fans to officials, everyone is buzzing with anticipation—ahead of the first World Cup draw in 2026. So save the date for December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.! This momentous occasion will set the group stage match-ups for each of the competing nations. England, Scotland and other home nations from the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland will be amongst those drawn.
The draw will start at 5 PM UK time, which is 12 PM EST. It marks a pivotal moment as the football community looks forward to the upcoming World Cup hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The 2026 tournament will see a dynamic, brand-new format with 48 teams at play! This expanded competition will dramatically raise the competitive importance of international football.
Fans in England and Scotland will find out who their teams’ group stage opponents will be. They’ll further partner with Wales, Northern Ireland & the Republic of Ireland for this unique & exhilarating experience. Beyond the tournament field, the draw will give important information about the possible matchups each team could find themselves facing once the tournament kicks off.
Fans across the globe will be able to follow live updates from the draw, starting at 18:03 UK time on Friday. The electric atmosphere surrounding these past few days of this event speaks to how crucial the World Cup is. It unites the biggest football fandoms on the planet.
The competing teams are getting ready for the lottery. This is because they understand that their initial group placements can make or break their overall successful tournament journeys. The stakes could not be higher! Thus, every participating team looks forward with great excitement to finding out who will be their adversaries in the opening round of this grand competition.



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