KSAsportz report
WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia faces a significant challenge in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup after being placed in Group H, which includes powerhouses Spain and Uruguay, along with Cape Verde. This competitive draw took place during a high-profile ceremony in Washington, attended by notable figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
In total, 48 teams will compete in the 2026 edition, marking the largest World Cup in history, which is an increase from the traditional 32 teams used over the previous seven tournaments. Saudi Arabia is set to add to the growing excitement surrounding the event.
Egypt has been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand, while Morocco will commence its campaign in Group C against Brazil before also facing Scotland and Haiti. Qatar is placed in Group B with Canada, Switzerland, and a team that will qualify through the intercontinental playoff.
Tunisia is in Group F competing against the Netherlands, Japan, and another playoff qualifier. Algeria faces the daunting task of challenging defending champions Argentina, alongside Austria and Jordan in Group J.
The Saudi delegation, led by Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan, the Kingdom’s ambassador to the U.S., included federation officials and head coach Hervé Renard.
The draw ceremony showcased a blend of entertainment, featuring model Heidi Klum and comedian Kevin Hart, as well as musical performances by the Village People, Robbie Williams, and Andrea Bocelli. Notable sports figures such as Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, and Shaquille O’Neal participated in conducting the draw.
During the event, FIFA presented its inaugural “FIFA Peace Award” to U.S. President Donald Trump. FIFA president Gianni Infantino remarked that Trump “certainly deserved” the recognition. Trump took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s diplomatic successes, stating: “We saved millions of lives, avoided many disasters, achieved peace between Pakistan and India, and overcame major challenges. Gianni is doing a great job and I’ve known him for a long time.”
The remaining groups were outlined as follows:
• Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, European Playoff Path 4 (Denmark, North Macedonia, Czech Republic, Ireland)
• Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, European Playoff Path 3 (Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, Kosovo)
• Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador
• Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, World Playoff Path 2 (Iraq, Bolivia, Suriname)
• Group K: Portugal, World Playoff Path 1 (DR Congo, New Caledonia, Jamaica), Uzbekistan, Colombia
• Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
FIFA will announce the venues and match schedules in a separate global event on Saturday, although additional details could be adjusted in March once all six playoff berths are finalized.