The 2026 FIFA World Cup is casting its shadow ahead. For the first time, the tournament will be held in three countries – the USA, Canada and Mexico – and with 48 teams will be bigger than ever before. Already, fans worldwide are asking: Who will claim the coveted trophy? A look at the hottest contenders.
Argentina – The Defending Champions
As the reigning world champions, the Albiceleste travel with their heads held high. Lionel Scaloni has shaped a homogeneous collective that appears enormously consolidated after the 2022 World Cup triumph and the 2024 Copa América victory. The big question: Will Lionel Messi, then almost 39 years old, still belong to the world's best? Players like Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández are ready to take on responsibility. Argentina counts among the absolute top favorites.
France – The Eternal Constant
Hardly any nation produces as much talent as France. With Kylian Mbappé, the Équipe Tricolore has one of the best players in the world in their ranks, along with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga and young star Warren Zaïre-Emery. Coach Didier Deschamps – provided he remains in office until 2026 – has a squad that is doubly stocked in virtually every position. After the lost final in 2022, the French are hungry for redemption.
Spain – The European Champion on an Upswing
With the 2024 European Championship title, Spain has impressively proven that the team once again belongs to the absolute world elite. Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzle on the wings, while Rodri dominates midfield. The mix of young whirlwinds and experienced players makes La Roja a serious title contender – provided the form holds until 2026.
Brazil – The Record World Champions in Transition
The Seleção have been waiting for their sixth star since 2002. Under coach Dorival Júnior, the fresh start is supposed to succeed. With Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Endrick, an attacking force is ready that can give any defense headaches. However, defensive stability remains a work in progress. Brazil belongs to the extended circle of favorites – but without brilliance it will be difficult.
England – Finally the Big Achievement?
The Three Lions have been on the verge of great success for years, but recently failed in the 2024 European Championship final. With Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane, they have one of the best squads in the world. Coach Gareth Southgate – or his successor – will do everything to secure the long-awaited first major title since 1966. 2026 could finally be the year of the Three Lions.
Germany – The Outsider with Ambitions
The German national team has undergone a rebuild after the early World Cup exits in 2018 and 2022. Under national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the team showed improving form at the 2024 home European Championship and reached the quarterfinals. With Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz, Germany has world-class players – the question is whether the team as a collective can also deliver at top level over 90 minutes. A surprise title is not ruled out.
Conclusion
The 2026 World Cup promises to be an open tournament. Argentina and France are likely to go into the tournament as favorites, but Spain, Brazil, England and Germany also have realistic title chances. The expanded format with 48 teams means more games – and thus more opportunities for surprises. The trophy will ultimately stand where quality meets consistency.