The ceremony at Washington's Kennedy Center honored Trump's diplomatic efforts like the Abraham Accords, though some dismissed it as a Nobel consolation. It preceded the group draw for the expanded 48-team 2026 tournament across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, starting June 11 with Mexico vs. South Africa. Hosts drew favorably: U.S. in Group D with Paraguay, Australia, and a playoff team; intriguing matchups include France, Senegal, Norway in Group I and England, Croatia, Ghana in Group L.
