The FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw in Washington, D.C., was meant to set the stage for the upcoming tournament, but it was the evening's musical performances that created the most memorable moments. Held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 5, 2025, the star-studded event saw Italian opera legend Andrea Bocelli deliver a show-stopping performance that left co-host Kevin Hart with "goosebumps."
A Tenor Triumphs Over Pop
Elegantly attired in a blue velvet suit and signature sunglasses, Bocelli took the stage backed by a full symphony orchestra and choir. His powerful rendition of the aria Nessun Dorma from Puccini's Turandot provided a classically thrilling highlight, momentarily shifting the focus from soccer to sublime artistry. The performance was a tough act to follow, even for established pop stars.
British singer Robbie Williams, recently confirmed as the FIFA Music Ambassador, performed the new World Cup anthem Desire alongside Nicole Scherzinger. While the former Pussycat Dolls singer shone in a sequined green gown, the duet was noted by observers for lacking the chemistry needed to ignite the ballad, especially following Bocelli's commanding presence.
Surprise Appearances and a Disco Finale
The event took an unexpected turn with an unannounced performance by Grammy-winning artist Lauryn Hill. The singer, accompanied by her band and sons Zion and YG Marley, energized the crowd with a reggae-infused medley featuring hits like Doo Wop (That Thing) and Lost Ones.
The evening concluded on a nostalgic note with The Village People leading the audience through their iconic disco hit YMCA. The performance prompted a notable reaction from the audience, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who was captured on camera dancing enthusiastically. Seated nearby, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum watched the scene with broad smiles.
A Global Stage for Sport and Spectacle
The draw itself set the groups for the first World Cup to be hosted across three nations: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The event successfully blended the formalities of international sport with high-profile entertainment, creating a global spectacle. From Bocelli's operatic grandeur to Hill's surprise set and the inevitable disco finale, the night offered a diverse preview of the cultural celebrations that will surround the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
