More than 200 nations will be in the pot for the draw on July 25, just under three years before Russia stages the tournament for the first time.

The draw will decide which teams will face each other in each qualifying zone.

Thirty-one qualifying slots will be up for grabs, with Russia having automatically qualified as hosts.

Delegates from the member associations across all six Confederations are expected at the draw, along with with an estimated 800 members of the media and an audience of around 2,000, including leading figures from politics, sport and showbusiness.

The Palace is located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, surrounded by parks and water.​

More than 200 countries are expected to be involved in the draw ©AFP/Getty Images



"We are very happy that FIFA supported the idea of hosting the 2015 FIFA preliminary draw in Konstantinovsky Palace", said Vitaly Mutko, Russia's Sports Minister, who is also the chairman of Russia 2018. 

"The National Palace is a magnificent architectural complex of the 18th century, and it symbolises the rich cultural traditions of our country.

"It will be a great introduction to Russia for national associations, guests, commercial affiliates and TV viewers all over the world."

Twelve stadiums in 11 cities are expected to host matches during the World Cup, which is due to be held from June 8 to July 8.

Russia's bid for the 2018 tournament, along with Qatar's successful bid for the following 2022 edition, has been the subject of an investigation into claims of corruption, the outcome of which is not expected to be revealed until next year.