World Cup 2026 Draw Hits Home for Miami Fans Ahead of Local Matches

The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ramped up in South Florida as fans packed Doral Central Park to watch the official group stage draw on Friday afternoon. Broadcast live from the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the ceremony revealed the matchups that will define the tournament’s early rounds, including those coming to Miami next summer.

Supporters wore jerseys and carried flags representing teams from across the globe. Some sported Argentina’s sky blue, others waved Haitian and Ecuadorian flags. A few kept it local, repping Miami while hoping their homeland would land a favorable bracket. Despite differing allegiances, the mood at the park was celebratory as fans learned who their national squads would face.

“For us, this is everything. Argentina all the way—we’re going for the fourth cup,” said one fan. Another was riding with Switzerland and Haiti. “We have it in our hearts, we have it in our minds,” said a man wrapped in a Haitian flag.

The crowd responded in real-time as each group was announced, with shouts and applause erupting after every pairing. “We’re so excited because I think we’re in a good group,” said a Colombian fan. Others voiced cautious optimism, like a woman cheering for Ecuador: “Hopefully, like, easy teams. But you never know. Either way, we’re looking good.”

As one of the host cities, Miami is set to play a major role in next summer’s global event. Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens will host seven matches, beginning June 15 and concluding with the Bronze Medal Final on July 18. Tournament play kicks off on June 11 in Mexico and will end with the Final on July 19.

Rodney Barreto, chairman of the FIFA Miami Host Committee, said the turnout at Friday’s watch party was just a preview for what the city will bring when the games arrive. “We’re not the hottest city in America, we’re the hottest city in the world. Everybody wants to be here,” Barreto said, emphasizing Miami’s growing international profile.

With group lineups now set, fans start the countdown. For some, like the Brazil loyalists at Doral Central Park, expectations are sky-high. “Is Brazil going all the way?” one was asked. She didn’t hesitate: “Yes. Obviously, yes.”

Whether it’s a shot at glory or just a chance to catch world-class soccer live in their own backyard, South Florida residents are ready. The energy in Doral was a clear signal: when World Cup matches land in Miami next year, the city won’t just be a host—it’ll be part of the show.