Bosses at world football's governing body Fifa on Wednesday refused to confirm reports that the draw for the 2026 World Cup will take place in Las Vegas, the same city that hosted the event for the 1994 World Cup in the United States.
Just over 30 years ago, the month-long football fest for the planet's best 24 teams was held exclusively in the US, next year's competition will for the first time feature 48 sides who will also play at two venues in Canada and three in Mexico.
Citing multiple sources, ESPN reported on Wednesday that Fifa's top brass had opted for draw ceremony to be held in Las Vegas on 5 December after convention centres in Canada and Mexico were ruled out.
The draw will be used to sort the teams into 12 groups of four. Mexico, Canada and the US have already been placed in Group A, B and D respectively.
Nations across the world are involved in qualifying games for the tournament which starts on 11 June with the opening game at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Guadalajara and Monterrey will also provide stadiums for matches in Mexico.
Argentina, who beat France in a penalty shoot-out in the 2022 final in Qatar, have booked their berth at the tournament from the 10-team South American confederation along with Ecuador and Brazil.
Qualifiers between September and November 2025
France will battle with Azerbaijan, Iceland and Ukraine between September and November for a place at the 2026 competition which culminates on 19 July at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Ten other American cities will host matches while Toronto and Vancouver will provide venues in Canada.
Though reticent on the precise details of the draw, Fifa executives were more effusive about details for the application slot for the first ticket draw.
It will open on 10 September and enable fans to visit FIFA.com/tickets to register their interest and create a Fifa ID.
"We encourage fans everywhere to get ready to secure their place," said Fifa supremo Gianni Infantino. "These will be the most coveted seats in world sport.
“Following the incredible success of the Fifa Club World Cup in the United States, excitement is reaching new heights for the World Cup.
"We’re looking forward to welcoming the world back to North America, as Canada, Mexico and the United States host what will be the biggest and greatest sporting event ever."
(With newswires)
