Is Scotland Ready for the Thrilling World Cup Draw?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place on Friday, 5 December 2025, at 17:00 GMT in Washington DC. This highly anticipated event will determine the matchups for the tournament, which will see Scotland competing for the first time in nearly 30 years. Fans can expect a grand spectacle, with a variety of personalities involved, as FIFA aims to surpass its previous record audience of 2.7 billion viewers.

Last updated: 04 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The excitement is palpable as the world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, where countries will discover their fates for the tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Scotland, particularly, is poised to find out its group stage opponents, marking a significant return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998. This draw promises to be a blend of entertainment and anticipation, with iconic figures and celebrities participating.

Key takeaways

• The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw is scheduled for 5 December 2025 at 17:00 GMT.
• Scotland will learn their group stage opponents after nearly 30 years away from the tournament.
• Fans can expect a grand event featuring celebrities and a potential record-breaking audience.
• The tournament will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
• Ticket prices and travel costs for the tournament are anticipated to be exceptionally high.

Timeline: how we got here

Here's a brief timeline of key events leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw:

• June 2022: FIFA announces the host countries for the 2026 World Cup.
• October 2023: Scotland secures qualification for the tournament, marking their return after a long absence.
• 5 December 2025: FIFA World Cup draw scheduled to take place in Washington DC.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The draw format has been slightly adjusted to accommodate the increased number of teams, with the tournament expanding to include 48 nations. This means more groups and a complex set of rules governing how teams from different confederations can be drawn together.

What was already established

Scotland’s historic qualification for the World Cup is a significant milestone for Scottish football, providing fans with a chance to see their national team compete on the world stage again. The excitement surrounding this draw reflects a nation's passion for football and the hope of a successful run in the tournament.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The draw and subsequent tournament will have a considerable impact on Scottish households, with many fans planning to travel to watch the games live. However, the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and match tickets are expected to be steep, particularly in major US cities.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in the host cities are preparing for an influx of visitors, which could significantly boost the economy. However, concerns over rising prices and accommodation availability are prevalent. The hospitality and travel sectors are expected to see increased business but may struggle to meet the high demand.

Policy and regulation

The UK government is likely to engage in discussions regarding travel regulations and support for fans wishing to attend the tournament. This includes potential arrangements to facilitate easier travel for Scottish supporters heading to North America.

Numbers that matter

• 48: The number of teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, up from 32 in previous tournaments.
• 2.7 billion: The record television audience that FIFA aims to surpass during the upcoming draw.
• 30 years: The length of time since Scotland last participated in a World Cup.
• 3: The number of host nations for the 2026 tournament: USA, Canada, and Mexico.
• 5: The number of groups Scotland could potentially be drawn into, depending on the draw results.

Definitions and jargon buster

• FIFA: Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the governing body of international football.
• World Cup: An international football competition contested by the men's national teams of the member associations of FIFA.
• Pot: A grouping of teams based on their ranking and performance, used to determine draw placements.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should monitor ticket availability and travel arrangements as soon as the draw concludes. It will be critical to book flights and accommodation early to avoid inflated prices as demand surges.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the tournament approaches, fans should stay informed about fixture timings and potential changes in regulations regarding travel to the United States and other host nations.

Signals to watch

• Official announcements from FIFA regarding match schedules and ticket sales.
• Travel advisories from the UK government related to the host nations.
• Updates on fan engagement initiatives from the Scottish FA and other organisations.

Practical guidance

Do

• Research travel and accommodation options well in advance.
• Stay updated with official announcements from FIFA and the Scottish FA.
• Engage with fellow fans for shared travel and accommodation solutions.

Don’t

• Leave ticket purchases until the last minute, as they are expected to sell out quickly.
• Overlook visa requirements for entering the United States, Canada, or Mexico.
• Ignore safety and travel advisories that may arise closer to the tournament.

Checklist

• Confirm your eligibility to travel to the USA, Canada, or Mexico.
• Identify preferred cities to watch matches and book accommodation.
• Plan your travel itinerary, including flights and local transport.
• Join fan clubs or groups for better access to tickets and shared experiences.
• Prepare for potential cultural differences and local regulations in host cities.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Scotland's participation in the World Cup is celebrated, the uncertainties surrounding ticket availability, travel costs, and potential logistical challenges are significant. Moreover, geopolitical factors could affect travel for fans, particularly regarding visa policies and safety concerns in the host nations. Fans should remain adaptable and informed as the situation unfolds.

Bottom line

The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup draw is a landmark moment for Scottish football, presenting both exhilarating opportunities and challenges for fans. As Scotland prepares to rejoin the global football stage, the focus will be on securing tickets and planning travel amidst rising costs. This is a crucial period for both fans and the Scottish FA as they navigate the complexities of international football.

FAQs

When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw?

The draw is scheduled for 5 December 2025 at 17:00 GMT, taking place at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC.

How can fans watch the draw?

Fans can watch the draw live on BBC and iPlayer, listen on BBC Radio 5 Live and Sounds, and follow updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

What impact will the draw have on Scotland's World Cup experience?

The draw will determine Scotland's opponents and match schedules, significantly influencing fans' travel plans and overall experience during the tournament.