Drake tells FIFA president Gianni Infantino Canadians are the ‘nicest people you’ll ever meet’ in bizarre interview as venues for rapper’s national team at 2026 World Cup are revealed: ‘It’s going to be beautiful’

Rap artist Drake raved about his compatriots and expressed his excitement in an interview with Gianni Infantino as his hometown of Toronto will be the host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The United States, Mexico and Canada will co-host the prestigious tournament in two years, with the first match north of the border scheduled for June 12, 2026 in Toronto.

During FIFA’s announcement program on Sunday, Drake sat down and spoke with the FIFA president about the incredible opportunity. The five-time Grammy winner told Infantino about Canadian culture and the buzz around the country as Toronto and Vancouver prepare to host five group games each.

“Not to make this a Canadian promo, but we’re the nicest people you’ll ever meet,” Drake said.

“Canada as a whole has an incredible melting pot. But in Toronto there are so many different cultural experiences. So when the world comes, it will be beautiful.”

The FIFA president interviewed Drake as Canada prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup

Drake’s hometown of Toronto will host Canada’s first match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

As a longtime sports fan, Drake praised the passion that surrounds the World Cup as countries across continents come together for the competition. He also added that Canada will welcome that passion and diversity with open arms.

“There is passion in a lot of things, but the passion for the World Cup is second to none,” Drake said.

“Obviously welcome with open arms and just to have all these different people who are there with passion, with competitive spirit (but) for a great competition and a great cause. I think it will just fill the streets with so much energy. We are here for you in Canada.”

The schedule announcement also included Kim Kardashian and Kevin Hart appearing as hosts. Hart praised Drake for always speaking positively about his city, while Infantino also praised the rapper for his dedication to his team.

“Drake was incredible,” Infantino added. ‘Also a real football fan.’

The Canadian men’s team will play in the World Cup for the third time in 2026. They previously qualified in 1986 and most recently in 2022, but struggled, falling last in their group both times.

Alphonso Davies scored the only goal for the Canadians at the World Cup, the other goal being an own goal by Moroccan central defender Nayef Aguerd.