FIFA is in “advanced negotiations” with venues in Las Vegas to “host the draw for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico” -- but soccer’s world governing body “has also discussed holding the event in Washington, D.C., if it made it easier for President Donald Trump to participate extensively,” according to Adam Crafton of THE ATHLETIC. When the U.S. last hosted a men’s World Cup in 1994, the draw took place at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The event is set to take place in December 2025, and FIFA has identified a return to Las Vegas as its “preferred destination.” It is also the “preference of several host city executives, who are hoping to entertain prospective commercial partners in Sin City before and after the draw.” Sources confirmed that FIFA “has explored multiple venue options in Las Vegas, with the 17,000-seater MGM Grand Garden Arena among the sites it is considering.” Other options include The Sphere and the T-Mobile Arena, but these are considered “less likely because residencies, holiday concerts and events are in high demand in December.” Additionally, FIFA has enquired about the “more intimate” Dolby Live arena, which has a capacity of 6,400, but MGM, which operates it, prefers “to keep the venue open for residencies or holiday concerts.” Internally, FIFA has “discussed the possibility of bringing the event closer to Trump, even floating ideas to host the event in considerably slimmed-down fashion at the White House or other potential sites in D.C.” Although, Trump “could still travel to Las Vegas for the event” (THE ATHLETIC, 4/16).
FIFA in talks to host 2026 World Cup draw in Las Vegas
