FIFA is pulling out all the stops as it attempts to elevate anticipation for the 2026 World Cup draw, an event that has become as politically charged as it is globally anticipated. In recent weeks, the spectacle has been surrounded by controversy — from rumblings about a potential peace prize for former U.S. President Donald Trump to an investigation into the venue itself, Washington D.C.’s iconic Kennedy Center. Despite the swirling headlines, FIFA is pressing ahead, determined to deliver a grand production designed to ignite global interest.
Oddly enough, football purists expecting a ceremony rooted in the traditions of the sport may be surprised. While World Cup draws typically highlight footballing legends, FIFA has opted for a distinctly different direction this year: Hollywood glamour, American entertainment, and spectacle-driven appeal.
Adding to the curious mash-up, The Village People will perform at the event, taking to the stage with Trump's signature anthem, “YMCA,” a symbolic nod to the former president. Trump’s relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been placed under heavy scrutiny in recent months, intensifying public interest in the tone and presentation of this year’s draw.
With so much attention on the politics and pageantry, the natural question becomes: Who exactly is hosting one of football’s most important global moments?
Hollywood Meets the World Game: Who Is Hosting the 2026 Draw?
In a departure from traditional football-centric World Cup draw hosts, FIFA has selected two global entertainment figures to lead the ceremony: American comedian Kevin Hart and German-American supermodel Heidi Klum. Both are household names whose careers span far beyond sports, marking a significant shift in FIFA’s approach to creating a more mainstream, entertainment-driven presentation.
Their involvement reflects FIFA’s ongoing desire to expand the global reach of the sport, particularly within the United States, one of the three host nations for the 2026 tournament. By tapping celebrities with broad international recognition, FIFA appears intent on transforming the draw into a full entertainment production rather than a strictly procedural sporting announcement.
Kevin Hart: The Comedic Powerhouse Taking Center Stage
Kevin Hart, one of the world’s most recognisable comedians, brings undeniable star power to the event. At 46, Hart has carved out a legacy as one of the most prolific funnymen of his generation. His résumé includes prestigious honours such as the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, multiple Grammy nominations and several Primetime Emmy nods.
A self-made entertainer, Hart began his journey in Philadelphia’s comedy clubs, where his sharp timing and distinctive delivery helped him build a loyal following. By the early 2000s, he had established himself across the northeastern U.S. comedy circuit, eventually catching the attention of major filmmakers. His early television break came via Judd Apatow’s 2002 sitcom Undeclared, which paved the way for larger opportunities.
His film roles in projects like Paper Soldiers, Soul Plane, The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Death at a Funeral introduced him to mainstream audiences. From there, his career took off. Hart’s comedic tours — particularly his wildly successful “Laugh At My Pain” tour, which grossed over $15 million — elevated him into one of the entertainment industry’s most bankable stars.
Hart has also enjoyed major success in the film industry, starring in box-office hits such as Ride Along, Get Hard, The Wedding Ringer and the globally popular Jumanji series. Demonstrating his versatility, he also ventured into drama, taking on a lead role beside Bryan Cranston and Nicole Kidman in The Upside.
His global performances occasionally found him at the center of controversy, particularly after he ignored calls for a cultural boycott of Saudi Arabia to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival. This decision resurfaced in the public conversation amid FIFA’s decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia, drawing attention to the interconnected nature of influence, entertainment and global sports.
Financially, Hart stands among the industry’s elite. Celebrity Net Worth estimates his wealth at $400 million, bolstered not just by his comedy and acting but also by his media company, HartBeat, a fast-growing entertainment brand.
Heidi Klum: Fashion Icon Turned Global Entertainment Figure
Joining Hart on stage is Heidi Klum, whose global reputation spans fashion, television and entrepreneurship. Born near Cologne, Germany, Klum launched her career after winning a national modeling contest as a teenager — a victory that secured her a $300,000 contract and put her on the path to international fame.
Over the last three decades, Klum has become a staple in the fashion world. She has graced the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, InStyle and Glamour, and became one of the most recognisable Victoria’s Secret Angels. She was also a frequent presence in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue, further cementing her global appeal.
Klum’s move into television solidified her place as a cultural icon. As host, judge and executive producer of the hit show Project Runway, she helped shape the careers of emerging designers while building her own reputation as a businesswoman and creative force. The show reached its 21st season in 2025, a testament to its long-standing appeal.
Her television presence expanded further when she joined America’s Got Talent as a judge, contributing over a decade of talent evaluation, audience engagement and on-screen charisma.
Klum has also ventured into design and entrepreneurship, collaborating with notable brands like Birkenstock and Mouawad. These ventures, combined with her television and modeling successes, have earned her substantial wealth. Celebrity Net Worth places her net worth at $160 million, reflecting her status as both a fashion icon and a highly successful business executive.
A Draw Like No Other
With Kevin Hart and Heidi Klum at the helm, the 2026 World Cup draw promises to be unlike any previous edition. The combination of political controversy, celebrity spectacle and global football anticipation creates a unique atmosphere — one that blends the worlds of entertainment, diplomacy and sport.
Whether FIFA’s entertainment-heavy approach resonates with football fans remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: this year’s draw will be one of the most watched, debated and dissected events leading into the 2026 World Cup.
