As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, excitement is building around the draw that will shape the group stage of the biggest tournament in football history. While FIFA has yet to make an official announcement, strong reports are emerging about the potential location and date of this pivotal event.

Which journalist broke the news?

According to Gibrán Araige, a journalist from TUDN, the group stage draw for the 2026 World Cup is expected to take place on Friday, December 5, at the iconic Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada. Although FIFA has not yet confirmed the venue or date, the report has been widely echoed in media outlets and on social media, given the massive global interest in the tournament.

Why is The Sphere such a special venue?

The Sphere is a cutting-edge venue located in Las Vegas, renowned for its futuristic spherical design and immersive technology. Equipped with 360-degree LED screens and state-of-the-art surround sound, the venue has hosted world-class concerts and entertainment events. If selected, it would mark the first time a World Cup draw is held in a venue of this nature, signaling FIFA’s ambition to deliver a visually spectacular experience for a global audience.

What will be decided in the draw?

The 2026 World Cup draw will determine the 12 groups for the tournament’s new 48-team format, making it the largest edition in FIFA history. In addition to group pairings, the draw will outline each team’s match calendar, the venues for their games, and key logistical details such as travel distances, rest days, and projected knockout paths.

If confirmed, this would be a historic kickoff to a groundbreaking tournament, and fans across the globe will be tuning in to see where their national teams will begin their World Cup journeys.