Your country has qualified for the 2026 World Cup. You’re thrilled to watch your nation compete against the globe’s finest. A pressing inquiry remains: how will teams determine their rivals?
This largest edition of the world-renowned sporting event is slated for the summer, occurring from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Currently, 42 out of the 48 teams have qualified, with six more to secure their spots in March 2026. The forthcoming phase will involve segmenting all 48 slots into 12 groups of four, ultimately aiming for the knockout round and the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
When and Where is the Draw? How to Watch?
The draw will take place at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., on December 5 at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT. You can watch it live on FOX and stream it on FOX One, FOXSports.com, and the FOX Sports App.
What Are Pots? How Does It Determine Groups?
The 48 participating teams will be organized into “pots” based on rankings and confederation regulations. Currently, we know 42 of the 48 teams ahead of the draw, with the other six expected by March 2026.
Each pot will comprise 12 teams (with placeholders for upcoming March qualifiers). Consequently, each group will feature one team from each pot.
The three host nations (Canada, Mexico, and the United States) are already designated into specific groups to facilitate their matches in home territory. Teams from the same qualification region (excluding UEFA) cannot be placed in the same group.
Pot Distribution
Pot 1 includes the three host nations and nine other top-ranked qualified teams per FIFA’s latest rankings, covering nations such as Spain, Argentina, France, and others.
What is the Draw Procedure? Are There Actual Pots?
Names of each team will be inscribed on slips of paper and placed within colored plastic balls in large clear bowls (pots) labeled 1 to 4. A representative will randomly select one ball from each pot, revealing the country.
This comprehensive draw will determine match-ups and allow teams to prepare for their competitors in the group stage.
Upcoming Matches for Co-Hosts
The three co-host nations are set to play their group stage matches as follows:
- USA: June 12 (in Los Angeles), June 19 (in Seattle), June 25 (in Los Angeles)
- Canada: June 12 (Toronto), June 18 (Vancouver), June 24 (Vancouver)
- Mexico: June 11 (in Mexico City), June 18 (Guadalajara), June 24 (Mexico City)
Final Stages of the World Cup
The group stage is scheduled from June 11–27, with subsequent rounds leading to the grand final on July 19. Keep an eye on updates to catch your favorite teams in action!
