Former England football star Rio Ferdinand has opened up about experiencing unprecedented nerves while conducting the high-profile FIFA World Cup 2026 draw in Washington, D.C. The event, held on Friday, December 6, 2025, was not short of surprises, including a historic moment where U.S. President Donald Trump was awarded the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize.
"I've Never Been This Nervous": Ferdinand's Candid Admission
Despite a decorated career playing in front of massive crowds for Manchester United and England, Ferdinand confessed the draw ceremony was a uniquely nerve-wracking experience. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 47-year-old defender contrasted the controllable anxiety of playing football with the unpredictable nature of hosting a global event.
"It was just a great evening to be here, man," Ferdinand said. "I've played football in front of some hefty crowds, but I've never been this nervous for anything." He elaborated that the "uncertainty and the unknown" of the live ceremony, even worrying if his "legs were going to be able to carry" him, caused the intense feeling. However, his fears subsided quickly once the event began, aided by the experienced production team around him.
England's Challenging Path in the 2026 World Cup
While relieved after hosting, Ferdinand expressed clear disappointment with the outcome of the draw for his home nation, England. The Three Lions were placed in a group that the pundit believes offers no easy passage.
England will face Croatia, Ghana, and Panama in the group stage of the quadrennial tournament. Ferdinand pinpointed Luka Modric-inspired Croatia and Ghana as particularly tough opponents. "I weren't happy with England's group, you know," he stated. "You want a group where you go, 'Listen, we can just sneak through there. Not too many hard games'. But we've got Croatia... Ghana, and Panama."
While he expects a victory against Panama, Ferdinand acknowledged that matches against Croatia and Ghana "will be difficult" and "tough games." Despite the challenge, he maintained faith in the English squad, backing them to "win the group and get out of the group," though he wished for "an easier runway."
A Ceremony of Historic and Controversial Moments
The draw ceremony itself was overshadowed by a significant and controversial announcement. In a historic first, FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump. This unexpected development became a major talking point, shifting some focus away from the football fixtures themselves.
The event, which sets the stage for the expanded 2026 World Cup to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has now firmly placed England in a competitive spotlight. Fans and analysts will be dissecting the prospects of Gareth Southgate's side against European stalwarts Croatia and African powerhouse Ghana for months to come.
