Trump jokes about keeping golden FIFA World Cup trophy; says Putin “may” attend as US is set to host 2026 World Cup draw at Kennedy Center

President Donald Trump announced Friday(August 22) that the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place on December 5 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, combining his interest in the global soccer event with a major overhaul of the nation’s premier cultural institution.

The draw will determine group-stage matchups for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will span the United States, Mexico, and Canada, featuring 104 matches. While 11 US cities will host games, Washington, DC, will host only the draw, marking an unusual role for a host-nation capital.

“The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest, most complex set of events in sports history. And the Kennedy Center will give it a phenomenal kickoff and will be involved,” Trump said.


During the Oval Office ceremony, FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented Trump with the World Cup trophy. Trump joked about keeping it, asking, “Can I keep it?” Infantino gave the trophy to Trump.

Infantino presented Trump with the first ticket to next year’s final, noting that tickets for the tournament go on sale on September 10.

Trump also made headlines with comments about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s potential attendance. He said Putin “may” come to the US for the World Cup, depending on unfolding circumstances after their recent meeting in Alaska.

The president has taken a hands-on role in reshaping the Kennedy Center, seizing control of its board and directing $257 million toward renovations. His moves have drawn criticism from artists and political leaders, with some high-profile figures resigning in protest.

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams and represents a historic international sporting event for North America. The Kennedy Center draw is intended to serve as a high-profile kickoff, blending global sports with the center’s revamped cultural programming.

Trump joked that people may start referring to the performance arts center as the “Trump Kennedy Center.”