The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will feature 48 teams. Despite the expanded format, the field of genuine contenders to succeed reigning champions Argentina is not expected to widen significantly.
Argentina, who top the FIFA world rankings and won their third World Cup title in 2022 by defeating France on penalties, remain the team to beat. The squad, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, has retained most of its core players, and Lionel Messi, who will turn 39 during the competition, is expected to participate. Argentina has also won the last two Copa America titles and was the first South American team to secure qualification for 2026.
Traditional football powers such as Brazil, now coached by Carlo Ancelotti, Germany under Julian Nagelsmann, France with Kylian Mbappe, Spain led by Luis de la Fuente and featuring 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, and England under Thomas Tuchel are considered the main challengers. Portugal is also in contention, with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to appear at a record sixth World Cup at age 41.
Italy, the Netherlands, and the host nations United States, Mexico, and Canada are preparing for the tournament, though expectations for the hosts remain modest, as no host has won since 1998. European qualifying is still underway, leaving several unknowns about the final list of participants.
No clear favorites yet to succeed Lionel Messi's Argentina as champions with 2026 World Cup in North America – 1st ever to feature 48 teams – just a year away
The tournament is considered in many ways to be a dress rehearsal for the big event, the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
