The draw for the 2026 World Cup turned the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. into the epicenter of world sport and spectacle. FIFA presented a ceremony full of international figures that mixed solemnity, nostalgia and festive energy to accompany the most important event prior to the World Cup.
The day began with the unmistakable voice of Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who performed “Nessun Dorma” accompanied by a live orchestra. Dressed in an elegant blue corduroy suit, Bocelli gave the event a majestic tone that thrilled the audience from the first chords. His performance was applauded for its interpretative strength and for the emotional charge he brought to the beginning of the gala.
World Cup draw is full of rhythm and excitement
Dona y cambia vidas
Tu donativo brinda terapias, esperanza y un futuro sin límites a niños con discapacidad. Haz la diferencia hoy.
The atmosphere changed completely after FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s opening message.
The musical explosion came from Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger, who performed “Desire”, announced as the official anthem of the 2026 World Cup.
Images of fans from around the world were projected on the screens, reflecting the cultural diversity that characterizes the World Cup and igniting the mood inside the venue.
Later, Lauryn Hill took the stage with her band to perform the classic “Doo Wop (That Thing)”.
The surprise of the evening came when her sons, Zion and Joshua Omaru “YG” Marley, joined her, generating one of the most vibrant and emotional moments of the show.
His presentation, the longest of the event, set the stage for the announcement of the tournament groups.
Village People put the festive finishing touch
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A ceremony filled with international stars
QuéOnnda.com
After the 2026 World Cup crossings were announced – among them Argentina’s group with Algeria, Austria and Jordan – came the musical closure with a retro touch.
The legendary Village People appeared in their iconic outfits to perform the classic “YMCA,” getting everyone in attendance dancing.
The presentation culminated with the audience raising their arms to the rhythm of the famous chorus.
Among those who stood to applaud was U.S. President Donald Trump.
Before the official ceremonies began, the pre-show was hosted by comedian Kevin Hart and supermodel Heidi Klum, who provided humor, energy and a relaxed tone to prepare the audience for the main ceremony.
For U.S. Hispanics, the gala not only represented the beginning of the road to the 2026 World Cup.
But a foretaste of the cultural and sporting impact that the first World Cup organized by three countries in North America will bring.
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