World Cup 2026: France, Spain, Argentina... Who are the favourites?
Key takeaways
- Will Spain or England add a second star to their shirts?
- Lionel Messi's title holders Argentina feature in our trio of hot favourites, along with European champions Spain and 2022 finalists France.
- But there are plenty of other title contenders, from England and Portugal to Senegal and Morocco, along with five-time winners Brazil.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
Will Spain or England add a second star to their shirts? Are we set for a final rematch between Argentina and France? Or can Senegal or Morocco clinch a first title for Africa? Here’s a look at the favourites and dark horses at the 2026 World Cup.
By: Romain HOUEIX / Benjamin DODMAN Will it be a second title for Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi or a first for Lamine Yamal? © FMM Graphic Studio The 2026 World Cup kicks off in Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium on Thursday, with a record 48 teams vying for the biggest prize in football. Lionel Messi's title holders Argentina feature in our trio of hot favourites, along with European champions Spain and 2022 finalists France.
But there are plenty of other title contenders, from England and Portugal to Senegal and Morocco, along with five-time winners Brazil. Here’s a look at who might get their hands on the famous gold trophy when the tournament wraps up in the MetLife Stadium near New York City on July 19.