2026 World Cup draw: How to watch, start time, teams and how it works

Los Angeles TimesMonday, December 1, 2025 at 11:00:00 AM
NeutralSports
  • The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place in Washington, D.C., where 48 teams were assigned to 12 groups, marking a significant milestone in the tournament's preparations. This event is crucial as it sets the stage for the expanded format of the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
  • This draw is essential for the participating teams as it determines their group stage opponents, influencing their strategies and preparations leading up to the tournament. The event also highlights the increased competitiveness of the World Cup, with more teams than ever before.
  • The draw has sparked discussions about the potential matchups and the so-called 'Group of Death,' where top-ranked teams may face each other early in the tournament. As the tournament approaches, the excitement builds around the implications of these groupings, particularly for historically strong teams like France, Argentina, and Spain, who are expected to navigate challenging paths to advance.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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