WASHINGTON, D.C. – Haitian football stands at a pivotal moment as the nation prepares to discover its group stage opponents for the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup 2026. The official draw ceremony, scheduled for Friday, December 5, 2025, at noon Port-au-Prince time at the Kennedy Center, will determine the competitive landscape for Haiti’s first World Cup appearance in over half a century.
The draw mechanism will utilize four seeding pots based on FIFA rankings, creating 12 distinct groups of four teams each. This format marks a significant departure from previous tournaments, guaranteeing each participant three initial matches. Haiti’s Grenadiers have been positioned in Pot 4, alongside other qualified nations and playoff winners, setting the stage for potential matchups against global football powerhouses.
A distinguished Haitian delegation will witness the proceedings firsthand, led by Monique André, President of the Federation’s Normalization Committee. The contingent includes technical staff headed by National Team Coach Sébastien Migné, administrative officials, and communications personnel. In a symbolic nod to history, Wilner Nazaire—captain of Haiti’s legendary 1974 World Cup squad—joins as FIFA’s special guest, bridging generations of Haitian football excellence.
Following the draw, FIFA will convene on Saturday to finalize tournament logistics, including potential adjustments to match timings and venue allocations. The governing body will subsequently release the official competition schedule.
The event will receive global broadcast coverage, allowing Haitian supporters worldwide to participate in this milestone moment as their national team reenters world football’s grandest stage.