The 2026 World Cup starts Thursday, kicking off the month-long sporting spectacle that will culminate with one country standing atop the soccer world.
Let's dive into the favorites, the host nations' chances, and which teams our in-house soccer expert Jamie Johnstone likes best to win it all before the action begins.
🏆 Tournament winner
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spain | +450 |
| France | +500 |
| England | +600 |
| Brazil | +750 |
| Argentina | +800 |
| Portugal | +1000 |
| Germany | +1300 |
| Netherlands | +2000 |
| Norway | +2500 |
| Belgium | +4000 |
| Colombia | +4000 |
| USA | +5000 |
| Morocco | +6000 |
| Japan | +6600 |
| Mexico | +6600 |
| Uruguay | +6600 |
| Croatia | +7500 |
Although Spain is the narrow favorite to win the World Cup at +450, it's far from the obvious choice at the top with five other teams priced +1000 or below.
Lamine Yamal leads the Spaniards in his first World Cup appearance. The 18-year-old sensation should be ready to go for Spain's opener against Cape Verde after overcoming an injury, bearing the weight of a nation's hopes after he helped lead Spain to victory at the 2024 Euros.
France, England, Brazil, and Argentina - soccer powerhouses you'd expect to be contenders - are the next four teams on the oddsboard. Argentina is the defending champion, while France won in 2018 and Brazil, the only five-time champion, is looking for its first title since 2002. England, meanwhile, has not won a World Cup since 1966.
Lionel Messi will make his final World Cup appearance for Argentina after finally getting his hands on the trophy four years ago in Qatar.
The United States has the shortest odds of the host countries to win it all at +5000. The USA is +130 to win Group D, which also includes Turkiye, Paraguay, and Australia.
Mexico is +6600 to be crowned champion and -120 to claim Group A. Canada is +20000 to lift the trophy and +180 to win Group B, in which Switzerland is favored.
💵 Picks to lift trophy
There's a reason Spain is the favorite, if narrowly. Luis de la Fuente's squad is stacked with world-class talent - blending rising stars with experienced leaders - and I believe it stands out among the loaded group of contenders.
Spain's identity is built on control and precision. Pedri dictates play alongside Rodri in midfield, allowing La Roja to dominate possession and tempo, while Yamal and Nico Williams (when fully fit) provide flair and creativity on the flanks. That balance fuels a side that often looks more like an elite club team than an international squad.
Spain arrives with momentum after winning a record fourth European Championship in 2024 and should cruise through Group H. A showdown with rival France could await in the knockout stage, but if La Roja clears that hurdle, they have a clear path to lift the trophy.
Portugal might not be the outright favorite, but its shot at a title is very real. Cristiano Ronaldo is set to feature in his sixth World Cup, adding experience and a proven goal-scoring presence to an already stout squad.
Behind Ronaldo, Portugal's midfield could be the difference. Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Bruno Fernandes are all coming off outstanding club seasons and provide the team with control, creativity, and energy in every phase. With Rafael Leao's explosiveness out wide and Ruben Dias anchoring the backline, this is one of the most balanced Portugal sides in years.
Portugal has often fallen short on the biggest stage, but this group feels different. If the midfield asserts itself and Ronaldo delivers in key moments, Portugal has a great chance to hoist the trophy in North America.
US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call (800)-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at www.connexontario.ca.
