FIFA are in advanced talks with venues in Las Vegas to host the draw for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico (h/t The Athletic).
The draw is expected to take place in December this year. It will determine the group stage line-up and set the pathway for the eagerly anticipated tournament.
FIFA consider Vegas a top choice – a sentiment shared by several host city officials, who see it as an ideal place to engage with commercial partners.
The MGM Grand Garden Arena, The Sphere and T-Mobile Arena are potential venues for the draw.
However, conflicts with concerts, sporting events and conventions could scupper their plans.
A return to Vegas would be nostalgic for FIFA, having held the draw for the 1994 World Cup there. This was the last time the US hosted the showpiece tournament.
That event was graced by special appearances from Dick Clark, Robin Williams, Stevie Wonder and a video message from former US president Bill Clinton.
While returning to Vegas would be a dream scenario for FIFA, they are not putting all their eggs in one basket.
Washington DC is being lined up as a back-up option, especially if it makes it easier for president Donald Trump to participate.
The World Cup has been a major talking point for Trump, and he has frequently lavished praise on FIFA boss Gianni Infantino.
There has even been internal discussion within FIFA about possibly staging a more modest version of the event in DC, maybe even in the White House.
FIFA, who are considering expanding the World Cup even further, has ruled out Monterrey and Vancouver as potential hosts for the draw.
