World football governing body FIFA has unveiled a multi-sport line-up to conduct the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Washington DC on Friday.
Countries will know their group opponents when the draw is done at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
FIFA has announced an assembly of sporting legends and world-class conductors who will lead fans through this exciting event.
“FIFA Legend and former England captain Rio Ferdinand, one of the most celebrated defenders of his generation, will conduct the draw, assisted by award-winning international broadcaster Samantha Johnson. Together, they will guide audiences through a truly unprecedented draw, as per the official procedures,” a citation from FIFA read in part.
Meanwhile, Ferdinand told FIFA.com that
“To conduct this historic draw is an unbelievable honour. As a player, I lived for these global stages – now I’m humbled to play a different, special role together with an incredible line-up to reveal the 12 groups of four teams that the whole world is waiting for.”
FIFA says cross-sport icons from American football, basketball, baseball, and ice hockey will join the event, making this final draw uniquely star-studded.
Seven-time National Football League (NFL) Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, four-time National Basketball Association (NBA) championship winner, and Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal.
NHL legend Wayne Gretzky and MLB star Aaron Judge will serve as draw assistants.
The final draw will be broadcast live on FIFA.com and by FIFA’s media partners around the world.
