2026 World Cup: AI Ranks the 15 Nations Most Likely to Win It All
With just under a year until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, excitement is already building. Will a new name be etched on the trophy, or will one of the giants reclaim glory?
Using insights from Grok AI, we now have a ranked list of the 15 countries with the best chance of lifting the World Cup next summer. While past champions feature heavily, some familiar underdogs and fresh challengers are also in the mix.
Here’s the AI-powered prediction, from long shots to favorites.
15. Colombia
Back in 2014, Colombia captured hearts with their stylish run to the quarter-finals, led by a peak-form James Rodríguez. Fast forward to now, they’ve secured qualification but still struggle to break past the last eight. They’re talented — but not quite among the elite.
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14. Croatia
Finalists in 2018 and semifinalists in 2022, Croatia have been one of the most consistent nations in recent World Cups. But with Luka Modrić and several key veterans nearing retirement, AI sees them falling just short of the top contenders this time.
13. United States
Despite being one of the host nations, the U.S. ranks only 13th — likely due to a shaky start under new manager Mauricio Pochettino. The team has talent, but there are doubts about cohesion and experience at the highest level.
12. Mexico
Mexico consistently gets out of the group stage but rarely progresses further. As co-hosts in 2026, expectations will be sky-high, but AI still sees them as a step below the major contenders.
11. Uruguay
The two-time world champions just miss the top 10. With no Suarez, Cavani, or Forlán in their prime, Uruguay now relies on a promising but unproven new generation. A strong showing is possible — but a title push looks unlikely.
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10. Belgium
Belgium’s golden generation has faded, but under new coach Rudi Garcia, there’s still hope. With De Bruyne’s leadership and the flair of Doku and Trossard, they remain a dark horse — though far from the force they once were.
9. Italy
A strange reality: Italy hasn’t played a World Cup match since 2014. After failing to qualify in 2018 and 2022, the 2006 champions return with Gennaro Gattuso at the helm. If he can channel his fiery playing spirit into coaching, Italy could surprise — if they make it to the tournament.
8. Netherlands
Forever the nearly-men, the Dutch were runners-up in 2010 and semifinalists at Euro 2024. With Ronald Koeman in charge and a new wave of talent, the Netherlands could mount another deep run — if they stay united.
7. Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup? Maybe. At 40, he leads a team stacked with talent: Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão, João Neves, and more. Already crowned Nations League champions in 2025, they’ll be hungry to go one step further and win the big one — perhaps dedicating it to the late Diogo Jota.
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6. Germany
Germany’s rebuild under Julian Nagelsmann is gaining momentum. They played attractive football at Euro 2024, led by young stars like Wirtz and Musiala. Though their quarter-final exit to Spain stung, the experience could be just what they need for a strong 2026 run.
5. Argentina
The reigning champions find themselves surprisingly low on this list. While Lionel Messi will likely make a final World Cup appearance, Argentina may lack the same spark that saw them triumph in Qatar. Still, under Lionel Scaloni, their disciplined approach can’t be counted out.
4. England
England’s golden generation continues to promise — but not deliver. After back-to-back losses in European finals, pressure is mounting. New coach Thomas Tuchel faces the challenge of balancing superstar talent like Bellingham, Saka, and Foden with tactical discipline. The pieces are there — but can they finally connect?
3. Spain
Winners of Euro 2024, Spain enters the World Cup as one of the most exciting teams in the world. With Rodri at his peak, and rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, La Roja seems poised for a new golden era. They’ve done it before — and look ready to do it again.
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2. Brazil
Five-time champions, Brazil haven’t lifted the World Cup since 2002 — but that could soon change. Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment brings calm authority to a star-studded squad. If he can manage the egos and unlock their full potential, Brazil could finally reclaim their throne.
1. France
The AI’s top pick? No surprise — it’s France. Despite heartbreak in the Euro and World Cup finals, Les Bleus still boast the deepest squad on the planet. With Kylian Mbappé leading the line and Didier Deschamps continuing to deliver results, France is the team to beat in 2026.
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