By Jude 
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is only one year away, and football fans around the globe are excited to welcome the event. With just about 365 days to go, it’s time to talk about which teams have the potential to bring home the trophy.
Some fans are backing the defending champions, Argentina, while others predict there may be new nations rising to claim the World Cup 2026 title. Many online platforms are now offering forecasts and analyses for football enthusiasts who want to join the excitement and stay ahead of the action. Now is the perfect time to explore which teams are looking the strongest for a run at the title in the 2026 World Cup.
What are your favorite teams for the 2026 World Cup? Here are some of the top contenders expected to dominate the tournament!
Spain
Spain is emerging as a favorite to win the 2026 World Cup. The team is packed with rising stars who have already proven themselves on the global stage. Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, as wingers, bring the speed and skill to break down any defense. In addition, the team features 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who is expected to return from his ACL injury in time for the tournament.
La Roja has only lifted the World Cup once before, in 2010. However, this year’s squad appears more dangerous than ever. Fresh off their victory in the 2024 UEFA European Championship, Spain looks like a serious threat heading into 2026.
France
France captured the World Cup in 2018 and again in 2022, and nearly clinched a third in 2024 before falling to Argentina in the final. The team also made it to the semifinals of the 2024 European Championship, where they lost to Spain.
France still boasts one of the most dangerous front lines in the world, led by superstar Kylian Mbappé, rising talent Désiré Doué, and top Ballon d’Or contender Ousmane Dembélé. Their defense includes elite players such as William Saliba and Theo Hernández. With deep tournament experience and explosive talent, France is once again a team to watch in 2026.
Brazil
Brazil remains the most successful nation in World Cup history, with five titles. However, the team hasn’t won since 2002 and has struggled to reach the podium in recent tournaments. In the quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America, they fell short against Uruguay.
Still, Brazil is never far from the conversation. With a solid team structure and key players like Vinicius Junior—who placed second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting and led Real Madrid to a UEFA Champions League title—Brazil has the firepower to make a deep run. Marquinho from Paris Saint-Germain also strengthens their backline.
England
England continues to be one of the most followed and supported teams in international football. The squad features Jude Bellingham, who finished third in 2024’s Ballon d’Or voting, alongside midfield powerhouse Declan Rice and goal-scoring leader Harry Kane. With this lineup, England remains a strong contender for the 2026 World Cup.