Overview

• The group stage draw is slated for December 5, 2025, at The Sphere in Las Vegas pending FIFA’s official confirmation.
• Multiple sources tell ESPN the Sphere’s 54,000 square-meter LED display and 17,500-seat capacity secured its selection over other venues.
• Las Vegas was excluded as a match-host city after Allegiant Stadium’s field dimensions fell short of FIFA regulations.
• Steve Hill of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority said FIFA couldn’t guarantee the financial returns the city expected.
• The expanded 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.