Village Peopel to Perform “Y.M.C.A.” at 2026 World Cup Draw, as FIFA Announces Entertainment Lineup
FIFA has announced that teh Village People will perform their signature song, “Y.M.C.A.,” at the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.The draw is scheduled to take place on December 5th at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The performance is notable as “Y.M.C.A.” became a frequently played song at rallies during former President Donald Trump‘s re-election campaign and at fundraising events held at Mar-a-Lago,with Trump often seen dancing to the song alongside supporters.
FIFA revealed a “world-class entertainment line-up” for the event on Tuesday, co-hosted by supermodel and television personality Heidi Klum, comedian Kevin Hart, and actor Danny Ramirez. musical performances will also include classical singer Andrea Bocelli and a duet featuring Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger. The Village People’s performance of “Y.M.C.A.” will conclude the draw ceremony.
The Kennedy Center is currently chaired by Donald Trump, following a board takeover by him and his allies earlier this year. Trump has stated he will be “involved” in the World Cup draw event.
FIFA’s President, Gianni Infantino, attended both Trump’s inauguration in January and a pre-inauguration rally. Following Trump’s expressed desire to receive the Nobel Peace Prize – an award ultimately given to Venezuelan democracy advocate Maria Corina Machado – FIFA announced it will present its own “Peace Prize” at the draw, widely anticipated to be awarded to the U.S.President.
Previously, The Athletic reported that FIFA did not consult its FIFA Council or vice presidents regarding the creation or announcement of the Peace Prize, nor were they involved in establishing the selection criteria.
At the FIFA Club World Cup draw in Miami last December, Trump’s daughter Ivanka and grandson Theo participated in the ceremonial first picks.FIFA has yet to announce who will conduct and assist with the 2026 world Cup draw itself.
