The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already being counted down to, and the excitement is everywhere. In fact, the decision to include 48 teams in the tournament and spread games across the US, Canada, and Mexico has made it the biggest World Cup ever.
While the fans are getting more and more excited, there remains a big question at the heart of it all: Who will be the winner? The list of potential winners is worth looking at.
1. Argentina – The Defending Champions
Argentina comes to the tournament as the winners of the last one after their stunning victory in 2022. It is expected that the legendary Lionel Messi will not be the main force this time, and so the future generation—like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández—will have to do it. The Argentine team, with its rich team spirit and tactical maturity, is still among the top favorites.
2. France – The Consistent Powerhouse
France has been a dominant force in recent years, making back-to-back finals in 2018 and 2022. With Kylian Mbappé still in his prime and a deep bench of rising stars, Les Bleus have the experience and depth to go far once again. Their balance of youth and experience makes them one of the safest bets for 2026.
3. Brazil – Forever a Threat
It seems like the year 2002 was the last time Brazil reached the heights of the World Cup, and since then, they have not managed to win the tournament, yet, they are still considered to be one of the most formidable sides in the world. With Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and the rest of the cast, Brazil has all the necessary things between style and substance. Still, it depends on whether or not they get to play the game at the right tactical rhythm to be worthy of the title.
4. England – Chasing History
England has come quite close with good results in the last several major tournaments but has never quite been able to break through. They have a young and eager team with exceptional names like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden. With the group getting more confident and mature, England will try to bring the cup home once again.
5. Portugal – Entering a New Era
The era of Cristiano Ronaldo is coming to an end, and Portugal is moving into a new phase. Famed players such as Rafael Leão, João Félix, and Gonçalo Ramos are coming through, and Portugal has plenty of talent to dazzle with and also pose a danger to the other teams. Portugal, therefore, could very well be the dark horses in the World Cup if their youngsters step up to the plate in the tournament.
6. Germany – Hungry for Redemption
After disappointing group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022, Germany will be eager to reestablish themselves as world champions. With a crop of young talent and renewed direction, the Germans will be aiming to return to their winning ways. Never underestimate their tournament mindset and discipline.
7. Spain – Rebuilding with Flair
With a wonderful new generation of players, Spain is in the process of rebuilding. Technical geniuses like Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal have not only quality but also bring elegance to the game. With a solid management system and a comeback of the possession-based style, Spain might be a serious contender for 2026. Without a doubt, if their young stars harvest their talents in time, they will be a team that nobody wants to draw against.
8. Dark Horses to Watch
The big teams will be the main theme of the world’s conversations, but there are some new rising teams that will be possible headline-makers in 2026.
• In 2022, Morocco stunned the global community with their incredible semifinal journey.
• The USA, as one of the hosts, will definitely get the fans’ support and will have a squad that is young, agile, and ready to battle.
• Moreover, Netherlands, Croatia, and Belgium also possess enough quality and the right mindset to pull off surprising wins.
In fact, these teams might not be the most likely to win, but they have the capability to advance to the later stages—especially if the draw and form go in their favor.
Conclusion: The Race Is Wide Open
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be filled with drama, surprises, and moments that will be remembered forever. While traditional powerhouse teams such as Argentina, France, Brazil, England, and Germany are the favorites to dominate the competition, Spain and Portugal are not far behind.
Moreover, the fact that the young teams looking forward to their moment in the limelight are not to be disregarded either. The football world is a place where anything can happen, and for that reason, it’s never easy to predict the winner. However, one thing is for sure—the world will be watching.