2026 World Cup Betting Odds
We are still two years out from the world’s premier soccer event, but the 2026 World Cup odds are already beginning to form.
With the 2024 Euro and 2024 Copa America concluded, seeing Spain and Argentina as champions, let’s dive into the soccer odds for the 2026 World Cup.
Favorites to Win FIFA World Cup 2026
France (+600) Despite not defending their World Cup title, France is among the top contenders for 2026. Led by Kylian Mbappe and a talented, young core, France is expected to see even more elite talent emerge by 2026. They fell to Spain in the Euro semifinal but remain a formidable team.
Brazil (+600) Regardless of Neymar’s presence, Brazil is expected to be a strong contender. With young stars like Vinicius Jr. in attack, Bruno Guimaraes in midfield, and Eder Militao in defense, Brazil boasts elite talent in all areas. However, their Copa America performance was disappointing, exiting in the quarterfinals to Uruguay.
Spain (+600) Spain’s early exit from Qatar mirrored previous tournaments, showing dominant play but little to show for it. With Pedri and Gavi as key players for the future, Spain has the potential to excel. Their victory in the Euro final against England, winning 2-1, highlights their growing strength.
England (+650) England, similar to France, has a young and talented core with more players expected to emerge by 2026. The status of Harry Kane will be a significant topic as the tournament approaches, especially after their Euro final loss to Spain. With players like Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Bukayo Saka, England has no shortage of world-class talent.
Argentina (+900) Argentina emerged victorious from one of the greatest World Cup finals ever, led by Lionel Messi’s outstanding performance. While Messi will likely not be part of the team in 2026, the next generation aims to continue their success. Argentina’s dominance was reaffirmed with a Copa America title, defeating Colombia 1-0 in the final.
Past Winners of the FIFA World Cup
In the 21 tournaments held in the history of the FIFA World Cup, eight different nations have claimed the title, with Brazil leading the pack with 5 championships. Here are the winners and runners-up for each World Cup:
- 2022: Argentina (Champion), France (Runner-up)
- 2018: France (Champion), Croatia (Runner-up)
- 2014: Germany (Champion), Argentina (Runner-up)
- 2010: Spain (Champion), Netherlands (Runner-up)
- 2006: Italy (Champion), France (Runner-up)
- 2002: Brazil (Champion), Germany (Runner-up)
- 1998: France (Champion), Brazil (Runner-up)
- 1994: Brazil (Champion), Italy (Runner-up)
- 1990: West Germany (Champion), Argentina (Runner-up)
- 1986: Argentina (Champion), West Germany (Runner-up)
- 1982: Italy (Champion), West Germany (Runner-up)
- 1978: Argentina (Champion), Netherlands (Runner-up)
- 1974: West Germany (Champion), Netherlands (Runner-up)
- 1970: Brazil (Champion), Italy (Runner-up)
- 1966: England (Champion), West Germany (Runner-up)
- 1962: Brazil (Champion), Czechoslovakia (Runner-up)
- 1958: Brazil (Champion), Sweden (Runner-up)
- 1954: West Germany (Champion), Hungary (Runner-up)
- 1950: Uruguay (Champion), Brazil (Runner-up)
- 1938: Italy (Champion), Hungary (Runner-up)
- 1934: Italy (Champion), Czechoslovakia (Runner-up)
- 1930: Uruguay (Champion), Argentina (Runner-up)
These tournaments showcase the rich history and competitive spirit of the FIFA World Cup, with each champion etching their name in football history.
How to Bet on the World Cup
The FIFA World Cup, held every four years, captivates fans worldwide and draws many newcomers to soccer betting. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to bet on soccer and the World Cup, covering moneylines, spreads, totals, and Asian handicaps.
FIFA World Cup Futures Odds
Betting on the outright winner of the FIFA World Cup is immensely popular as a futures betting option. Odds typically emerge shortly after the conclusion of the previous World Cup and adjust based on team performances leading up to the tournament. Sportsbooks may also adjust odds based on betting handle and potential liabilities. Futures odds are presented in list format, ranking each team’s likelihood of winning from best to worst:
- France +500
- A $100 bet on France would yield $500 in winnings if they win the World Cup.
- Brazil -110
- You would need to bet $110 to win $100 on Brazil winning the World Cup.
These odds are typically shown in American format but can be converted to decimal or fractional odds using online tools.
World Cup Trends
- Host Country Success: A host country has won the World Cup five times.
- Back-to-Back Champions: Only Brazil has won back-to-back World Cups (1958, 1962).
- Continental Trends: No African or North American nation has reached a World Cup final.
- Recent European Dominance: Prior to 2022, the previous four World Cups were won by European nations.
Understanding these trends can provide insights into betting strategies and expectations for upcoming tournaments, adding depth to the excitement of World Cup betting.
FIFA World Cup Odds FAQs
Who are some of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
France, Brazil, and Spain are all listed with odds of +600, while England is closely behind at +650.
Which country is the most successful in World Cup history?
Brazil holds the record for the most World Cup victories, having won the tournament five times. Italy and Germany follow closely with four wins each.
Where is the 2026 World Cup being held?
The 23rd edition of the World Cup will be hosted across 16 venues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.