• Donald Trump awarded FIFA's inaugural peace prize during World Cup draw.
• The draw for the 2026 World Cup featured prominent sports and entertainment figures.
• Trump's participation included a performance of his iconic "YMCA" dance.
• The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams and will take place across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
• Major entertainment acts included Andrea Bocelli and the Village People, adding to the spectacle.

The 2026 World Cup draw took place on December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, featuring U.S. President Donald Trump, who received FIFA's inaugural peace prize. FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Trump's "enormous efforts" in promoting dialogue and de-escalation globally, making the event a significant moment in the lead-up to the tournament. Trump described the award as one of the greatest honors of his life, stating it recognizes peace efforts "around the world," according to SFGate, Dawn, and Le Monde.

The draw event not only featured Trump but also co-hosts Kevin Hart and Heidi Klum, with performances by global stars like Andrea Bocelli and the Village People. The atmosphere was festive as Trump engaged with fellow leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, marking a commitment to cooperation between the nations hosting the tournament. Infantino emphasized the unique scale of this tournament, being the first to include 48 teams, according to India Times and The Jakarta Post.

A highlight of the event was Trump showcasing his well-known "YMCA" dance during the performance by the Village People, which has become synonymous with his public persona. This lively participation encapsulated the spectacle of the event, which aims to attract a wide audience as it moves closer to the commencement of the matches in June 2026, culminating in a grand finale at MetLife Stadium, according to SFGate, Dawn, and Le Monde.

As the tournament approaches, it is anticipated to generate significant global interest, not only in soccer but also in the interplay between Trump’s political narrative and the spectacle of the World Cup. However, concerns linger regarding the implications of current U.S. immigration policies on the event's success, with multiple civil rights groups voicing apprehensions about potential impacts on attendance and logistics. Nevertheless, the coordination among the three host nations is a vital aspect of moving the tournament forward, according to India Times and The Jakarta Post.