The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place this Friday, setting the stage for the massive tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For England, the event brings a significant early boost: they are guaranteed to avoid old rivals France until the final.
How FIFA's Seeding System Protects Top Teams
This favourable draw scenario is a direct result of FIFA adopting a Wimbledon-style seeding system for the first time. The governing body has confirmed that the top four nations in the world rankings will be kept apart until the semi-final stage. World number one Spain and second-ranked Argentina will be placed in opposite halves of the draw, as will third-placed France and fourth-placed England.
This means if both England and France win their respective groups, their paths cannot cross until a potential showdown in the final on 19th July 2026. The rule offers a major tactical advantage to Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel, who is aiming to lift the Jules Rimet trophy.
England's Form and Tuchel's Selection Headache
England head into the tournament in formidable form, having enjoyed a flawless qualifying campaign. They won all eight of their matches, scoring 22 goals and conceding none. This marks a strong turnaround under Tuchel, who took over from Gareth Southgate and has steadied the ship after a rocky start.
Under Southgate, England reached two European Championship finals and the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, but their 2022 World Cup journey ended in a quarter-final defeat to France. The hope now is that Tuchel can be the man to finally end the decades-long wait for major tournament glory.
Once Friday's draw is complete, focus will shift sharply to squad selection. With only 26 spots available, competition is fierce. Tuchel has indicated his long list contains 55-60 players and insists the door remains open until the final selection in May 2026.
"I have a settled mind but I will also be open because I know anything can happen," Tuchel stated before England's final qualifiers. "Young players can come through... I need to make sure the door is always open."
What Happens Next?
The initial draw will feature 64 teams, which will be reduced to the final 48 after the play-offs conclude early next year. England, having qualified automatically, await their group-stage fate. The World Cup 2026 draw begins at 19:00 GMT on Friday, 5th December 2025.
For fans, the complex seeding rules have provided an early narrative, ensuring a potential England-France clash remains a tantalising prospect reserved for the very last match of the tournament.
