The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun, and the race for the trophy looks more unpredictable than ever.
Here are Sports Illustrated’s rankings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Favorites Predictions.
2026 FIFA World Cup Favorites Predictions Top 10
| Rank | Team |
|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina |
| 2 | Spain |
| 3 | France |
| 4 | England |
| 5 | Portugal |
| 6 | Brazil |
| 7 | Germany |
| 8 | Netherlands |
| 9 | Uruguay |
| 10 | Italy |
FIFA World Cup Favorites Predictions
10. Italy
Italy, the four-time world champions, have astonishingly missed the last two World Cups, yet managed to become European champions in between those absences.
That level of volatility hardly strengthens their case as contenders for the 2026 World Cup, but if they secure qualification, they will remain one of the prominent nations to watch.
9. Uruguay
Uruguay may be two-time World Cup champions, but they haven’t returned to the final since lifting the trophy back in 1950.
Winning a third World Cup would require them to defy expectations, yet the squad’s depth and Bielsa’s influence give Uruguay enough firepower to dream big.
8. Netherlands
The Netherlands are still chasing their first World Cup title after finishing as runners-up on three occasions.
The challenge for Ronald Koeman’s side is that they have yet to fully convince, and the Dutch continue to wrestle with defensive lapses.
7. Germany
Since lifting the trophy in 2014, Germany have suffered back-to-back group-stage exits at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
Although their squad still features exceptional talent, lingering concerns remain, particularly in defense and in goal, casting doubt over their ability to rediscover past glory.
6. Brazil
They haven’t reached a World Cup final since 2002 and were eliminated in the quarterfinals in each of their last two attempts.
Fortunately, their attack remains frighteningly potent. Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, João Pedr.
5. Portugal
Portugal are once again viewed as legitimate World Cup contenders, even though they have never lifted the trophy before.
The biggest concern may be manager Roberto Martínez, whose tactical limitations could surface in the later rounds.
4. England
England fans still sing proudly about their 1966 World Cup victory, but they would dearly love to add a new chapter to that anthem next summer.
Now, With Thomas, the German tactician has enjoyed an excellent start, guiding England through qualifying without conceding a single goal.
3. France
France, the 2018 world champions, have not been able to turn their exceptional talent into trophies in recent years. They have fallen short in the last three major tournaments.
Even so, France continue to be a dominant force at both the Euros and the World Cup. Deschamps uses a pragmatic and structured approach that is perfectly suited to knockout football.
2. Spain
Spain, the 2010 world champions, have struggled in recent World Cups and have not advanced past the round of 16 in the last three editions.
Given the quality and maturity of this squad, Spain will expect to compete for the title in North America.
1. Argentina
Argentina are once again the team to beat. Lionel Scaloni has led them back to the summit and remains one of the most reliable managers in major tournaments.
The 2026 World Cup could be Messi’s final appearance on the world stage, and a fourth title for Argentina would serve as a fitting farewell for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Further Reading: 2026 FIFA World Cup Favorites Odds: Who’s Trending Up?
Conclusion
Traditional giants like Argentina, Spain and France lead the pack, but the depth of quality across the top ten makes this tournament wide open.
Every contender has its strengths and flaws, and much will depend on form, fitness and momentum heading into North America.
