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On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington, DC. The prize recognizes individuals for exceptional peace efforts. The award sparked criticism due to Trump's controversial policies and military actions, while Infantino praised Trump’s peace initiatives and their close alliance.
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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents and fixture details, with the tournament running June 11 to July 19, 2026.
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The 2026 World Cup draw took place at the Kennedy Center, featuring entertainment, political figures, and star-studded moments. The event announced the 12 groups for the expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, with notable attendance by President Trump and other leaders.
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Seattle Sounders secured their first Leagues Cup title with a 3-0 victory over Inter Miami, led by goals from De Rosario, Roldan, and Rothrock. The celebration was marred by a post-match melee involving players and staff, notably Luis Suárez, who was seen grabbing Obed Vargas and spitting at a coach. The incident is under review.
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Incidents of racial abuse against Black players have increased across European football this season, with arrests made in Spain and ongoing investigations in Germany and Italy. Despite anti-discrimination efforts, racism persists, prompting calls for tougher penalties and greater accountability.
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European and global qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are progressing, with key matches including Portugal vs Armenia and Ukraine vs France. The qualification process is affected by recent political tensions, injuries, and schedule concerns. Ticket sales open soon, with prices ranging from $60 to over $6,700, as the tournament approaches next summer in North America.
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Lionel Messi is close to finalizing a multi-year contract extension with Inter Miami, keeping him in MLS through at least 2026. The deal aims to secure his presence for the club's new stadium opening and beyond, with negotiations in the final stages. Messi has not publicly addressed his World Cup plans.
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The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony took place at Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, honoring the world's best footballers. Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappé are among top contenders, with Scottish players Scott McTominay and Caroline Weir nominated for the first time. The event celebrated achievements across men's and women's football.
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European football qualifiers see key wins for England, Norway, and Portugal, with Italy and Spain also progressing. Pro-Palestinian protests occurred around Italy's match, amid security concerns. Cristiano Ronaldo set a scoring record, and Norway's Haaland reached 50 goals for his country. The story highlights qualification progress and related protests.
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Ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are progressing, with a domestic exclusivity phase for US, Canada, and Mexico residents running until Friday. Over 1 million tickets have already been sold globally, amid questions about visa requirements and ticket pricing, including dynamic pricing for the first time.
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On November 17, 2025, the US government announced the FIFA Pass, a new system to expedite visa appointments for 2026 World Cup ticket holders. The initiative aims to ease entry for millions of fans attending matches across the US, Canada, and Mexico, despite ongoing border security concerns under President Trump’s administration. The system prioritizes visa interviews but does not guarantee entry.
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Iraq secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their Asian playoff. The tournament will expand to 48 teams, with qualifiers from six continents. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., with the final tournament beginning in June 2026 across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
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Lionel Messi, 38, has not confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Cup, though he expressed a desire to attend. Argentina, the reigning champions, is preparing for the tournament hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada. The draw takes place Friday, with Messi weighing his options amid ongoing club commitments.