The Jordan Times

 AMMAN — Jordan have been drawn alongside Argentina, Algeria and Austria in Group J of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a landmark draw ceremony held on Friday at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

The event was attended by US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, marking the official start of Jordan’s first-ever World Cup campaign.

The 2026 edition will be the biggest World Cup in history, hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada from 11 June to 19 July. The expanded format features 48 teams, an increase of 16 from Qatar 2022, offering broader representation on football’s global stage.

During the ceremony, FIFA unveiled the tournament’s official match ball, Trionada, a name derived from the Spanish phrase meaning “three waves”, symbolising the tri-nation hosting of the event.

This year’s World Cup will also set a regional record, with seven Arab nations already qualified and the possibility of an eighth should Iraq progress through the play-offs.

His Majesty King Abdullah expressed his pride in a post on X, writing: “Proud to see Jordan present at the World Cup 2026 draw today. Wishing our national team the best of luck.”

Jordan’s placement in Group J sets the stage for a historic debut, as the Nashama prepare to face some of the world’s strongest footballing nations, including defending champions Argentina.