Washington – 09.06.2026: The 2026 Football World Cup is casting its shadow ahead. From June 11 to July 19, 48 nations will compete in the USA, Canada, and Mexico for the coveted title. Who are the favorites, and which teams could surprise in this expanded field of participants? An overview of the key nations and their chances.
Spain: The Undisputed Favorites
Spain is considered one of the top favorites following their win at the 2024 European Championship and an impressive streak of 31 unbeaten competitive matches. With a title probability of around 16.12 percent, players like Rodri, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri aim to confirm their success.
France: Runner-Up World Champion with a Star Ensemble
France, the 2022 runner-up, follows with a probability of about 12.67 percent. The “Équipe Tricolore” still boasts strong attacking forces like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, who are capable of deciding matches.
England: Hunting for the First Title Since 1966
England is assigned an 11.3 percent chance of winning the title. The “Three Lions” want to celebrate their first World Cup victory since 1966. Key players like Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka are in focus and could make the difference.
Brazil and Argentina: South American Giants
Brazil and Argentina, each with about a ten percent chance, are the main challengers from South America. Argentina, the defending champion from 2022, aims to win the trophy again under the leadership of Lionel Messi.
Portugal: Experience and Young Talents
Portugal, with about a 9.5 percent chance of winning, relies on the experience of Cristiano Ronaldo combined with promising young players like João Félix. The team wants to build on recent successes.
Germany: Seeking the Fifth Star
Germany, with an estimated eight percent title chance, wants to secure its fifth World Cup. With players like Joshua Kimmich and Kai Havertz, the “Mannschaft” aims to return to the circle of favorites.
Underdogs with Potential
Besides the favorites, teams like the Netherlands (6 percent), Norway (4 percent), and Belgium (3 percent) could cause upsets. Especially Norway, led by Erling Haaland, is considered a possible sensation.
Outlook
The football World Cup 2026 promises exciting games and surprising twists. Favorites like Spain, France, and England stand in the spotlight, but South American rivals and ambitious underdogs add extra appeal to the overall expanded tournament with 48 teams. On July 19, it will be revealed which team manages to lift the trophy in the USA, Canada, or Mexico.