Washington D.C. is abuzz with excitement as the final draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ edges ever closer. As the build-up continues to the big event at the prestigious John F. Kennedy Center, legends of the game are touching down in the USA’s capital city to join in the festivities.
Among those eagerly anticipating to see where the 48 teams will be placed for next year’s global showpiece is former Mexico striker Luis Hernandez. Known as ‘El Matador’ for his ruthless finishing during a decorated career, Hernandez participated in two editions of the World Cup.
At France 1998, he registered four goals, the most by any Mexico player in a single World Cup. His four career goals at the global finals also still stands as a benchmark for the most by a Mexico player, a record he shares with Javier Hernandez.
Hernandez is in Washington DC this week as part of the FIFA Legends team, and while his last appearance in the tournament came at Korea/Japan 2002, the World Cup still stokes a fire within the 56-year-old.
It is no surprise to see that he can easily recall the feeling and emotions that a footballer feels in the lead-up to a World Cup draw.
“You go back to having that excitement again, and also those nerves,” said Hernandez in an interview with FIFA.
In particular, the appeal of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the very best in your trade resonates deeply, as does the sensation of knowing which opponents will consume your focus until the tournament kicks off.
“First of all, you are alongside the greatest players and seeing all the teams,” said Hernandez. “Also you see who your national team will be playing against. So, what a footballer feels before a World Cup draw are nerves, but at the same time it is exciting.”
