Tom Brady, Shaquille O'Neal and more celebrities set to headline Friday's World Cup draw

T he upcoming World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded events in FIFA history.

On Friday, an eclectic mix of sports icons and entertainment heavyweights will take the stage as the world learns the group assignments for a record-breaking 64 participating nations.

FIFA announced Wednesday that Tom Brady and Shaquille O'Neal will be among the headline figures assisting with the draw.

Brady , who is also part owner of English club Birmingham City, expressed his excitement about taking part in such a global moment.

"Being part of the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup is an incredible honour - it's the kind of global stage every athlete dreams of," he said in a FIFA release. "I'm excited to help set the path for a tournament that brings the world together like nothing else."

The seven-time Super Bowl champion and the NBA Hall of Famer will stand alongside former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge , and hockey legend Wayne Gretzky as the process unfolds and the tournament's 64 teams are slotted into their groups.

Entertainment and a historic draw

The ceremony itself is set to be every bit as theatrical as the competition it precedes. Model Heidi Klum will co-host the event with actors Kevin Hart and Danny Ramirez , setting the stage for a lineup that blends pop culture with international sport.

Musical entertainment includes Nicole Scherzinger, who boasts both Tony and Olivier Awards, as well as performances from Andrea Bocelli and Robbie Williams.

In a moment sure to spark nostalgia across generations, The Village People are scheduled to take the stage for a rendition of "Y.M.C.A." Additionally, FIFA will present its inaugural Peace Prize, intended to "recognize exceptional actions for peace."

But beyond the glitz and celebrity appearances, the draw marks a historic shift in world football. For the first time ever, 64 nations will be placed into groups.

Heading into Friday's ceremony, only 42 of the 48 available slots have been secured. That leaves 22 teams preparing for the playoffs that will determine the final six berths on March 31.

Under the expanded format, 12 group winners, 12 runners-up, and eight third-place teams will advance to a new round of 32. The eventual champion will play eight matches instead of seven.