World Cup 2026 draw: which teams have qualified and how does it work?

• The World Cup 2026 draw is set to take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on December 5, starting at 12 PM local time. The event will feature various presentations, including speeches and performances, highlighting FIFA's commitment to promoting peace through football. This draw will determine the matchups for the tournament, which is anticipated to be one of the largest sporting events globally.
• The draw is significant for FIFA as it not only organizes the tournament but also aims to enhance its image through initiatives like the peace prize. The financial backing of $7.4 million from FIFA to the Kennedy Center underscores the importance of this event in the lead-up to the World Cup, showcasing the intersection of sports, culture, and diplomacy.
• The decision by Iran to boycott the draw due to U.S. visa refusals reflects ongoing diplomatic tensions and raises questions about the inclusivity of international sporting events. Additionally, the adoption of a tennis-style seeding system for top teams aims to ensure competitive balance, indicating FIFA's efforts to innovate and maintain fairness in the tournament structure.

— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System