FIFA World Cup 2026: The Seven Teams Most Likely to Win the Tournament

As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the global football landscape is buzzing with predictions, power rankings, and bold expectations. The expanded 48-team format will bring surprises, but based on current form, squad depth, coaching stability, and recent tournament performances, several nations clearly stand above the rest. Below are the seven teams most likely to win the FIFA World Cup 2026.

1. Argentina

FIFA ranking: 2

Argentina enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the defending champions and one of the strongest favorites to lift the trophy again. Having won the 2022 World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles, Lionel Scaloni’s side has unmatched continuity and resilience. Even as Lionel Messi approaches his 40th birthday, Argentina have developed a tight, talented roster capable of performing at the highest level. Their chemistry, defensive solidity, and tournament experience make them one of the safest bets to go deep in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

2. Spain

FIFA ranking: 1

Spain enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 with the credibility of European champions and a squad brimming with youth and technical quality. Their Euro 2024 triumph signaled a new era built on speed, pressing and creative brilliance. With rising stars and a well-structured system, Spain combine flair with tactical discipline. They dominated Europe during qualifying and appear poised to replicate that success on the global stage. Their balance, form, and upward trajectory make Spain one of the teams most likely to win the FIFA World Cup 2026.

3. France

FIFA ranking: 3

France consistently boast one of the most talented squads in world football, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be no exception. With Kylian Mbappé entering his prime years, Les Bleus possess unmatched speed, firepower and depth. Their Euro 2024 campaign fell short, but the quality in every position remains frightening. As this will be Didier Deschamps’ final World Cup, the team will have emotional motivation to send off their long-time coach with another global trophy. If France find attacking cohesion, they could easily reclaim the title they won in 2018.

4. England

FIFA ranking: 4

England head into the FIFA World Cup 2026 with one of the deepest and most experienced squads on the planet. Their recent tournament performances—Euro 2020 final, 2022 World Cup quarterfinal, and another major final appearance—show consistent progress at the highest level. Under Thomas Tuchel, England can blend structure with creativity, maximizing their elite attacking talent. With stars like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden, England have the tools to challenge any opponent. Their biggest task will be overcoming the psychological weight of winning their first World Cup since 1966.

5. Brazil

FIFA ranking: 5

A discussion about the FIFA World Cup 2026 contenders would be incomplete without Brazil. The five-time world champions have some of the most exciting attacking players in the world, but they have struggled in recent tournaments with inconsistency and tactical instability. The arrival of Carlo Ancelotti as head coach could be a game-changer. His calm leadership and ability to build cohesive systems around superstar talent may provide the structure Brazil have lacked. With their trademark flair and a new sense of discipline, Brazil remain one of the top challengers for the 2026 World Cup title.

6. Netherlands

FIFA ranking: 7

The Netherlands are often underestimated, yet they consistently reach the latter stages of major tournaments. For the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Dutch bring their strongest generation in years—featuring experienced leaders like Virgil van Dijk alongside dynamic young talents. Their tactical flexibility and ability to control games through technical midfielders make them a dangerous knockout-round opponent. If their attack clicks and injuries stay minimal, the Netherlands could be one of the tournament’s biggest dark-horse threats to win the FIFA World Cup 2026.

7. Germany

FIFA ranking: 10

Germany return to the global stage with renewed belief after hosting a strong Euro 2024 and rebuilding their identity under Julian Nagelsmann. Traditionally one of the most successful nations in World Cup history, Germany’s blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership makes them a serious contender for the FIFA World Cup 2026. With emerging stars, improved defensive structure, and a revived attacking approach, the Germans look capable of returning to their former heights. If their chemistry and form hold, Germany could surprise many and chase a fifth World Cup trophy.

Final Outlook on the FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be one of the most competitive editions ever. Argentina, Spain and France lead the pack, but England, Brazil, the Netherlands and Germany are close behind, each offering a unique blend of youth, experience and tactical identity. With expanded competition and unpredictable knockout drama, the dream of lifting the FIFA 2026 trophy will push these seven nations to incredible heights. Whether a defending champion repeats or a rejuvenated giant rises again, football fans are set for a spectacular summer on the world’s biggest stage.