FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed his excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, saying he cannot wait to find out which nations Ghana’s Black Stars will be pitted against on football’s grandest stage.
The four-time African champions confirmed their return to the World Cup on Sunday night after edging Comoros 1-0 at a packed Accra Sports Stadium. The result sealed Ghana’s qualification for a fifth appearance at the global tournament, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Black Stars book their ticket: Ghana marches back to the World Cup stage
In a heartfelt video message, Infantino applauded the Black Stars for their accomplishment and highlighted the passion their supporters bring to world football.
“Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 2026 in Canada, Mexico and the United States,” he said.
“We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December. See you very soon and well. Congratulations,” Infantino added.
The much-anticipated draw will take place on December 5 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
Ghana at the #FIFAWorldCup 🇬🇭
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 12, 2025
Ghana secured top spot in Group I of the African qualifiers with 25 points, capping a campaign that reaffirmed their resurgence under coach Otto Addo. Having fallen short in the group stage at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Black Stars will be determined to produce a stronger showing when they step onto North American soil next year.
The West African side previously featured at the 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022 editions, with their run to the quarterfinals in South Africa remaining one of Africa’s most iconic World Cup moments.
