Who wins the World Cup in 2026? (6-8-26)

By: Victor Herrera 

Headline Photo Credit: NBC LOS ANGELES

The World Cup is about to begin this summer. Many storylines are going into this event. However, I don’t believe any are as big as this potentially being the last time we see both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo suit up for their respective countries. This would be the end of an era that grew the game of soccer globally. Although, I don’t believe either one will win the World Cup. It will provide a sense of closure seeing both of these two take the pitch one last time. 

It’s Officially FIFA World Cup Week! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/BGMulXHaCw

— FIFA World Cup HQ (@FIFAWCHQ) June 8, 2026

Teams participating have already made their way to the United States, Mexico, and Canada to continue training and preparing for a chance to win the highest achievement in the sport. One thing is for certain, the heat in North America will have a toll on who wins this tournament. There have already been reports of the European teams struggling with the heat waves that have crossed the United States.

As we get deeper into summer during this tournament expect temperatures to climb even higher. There are experts who believe Mexico and the United States could break heat records while playing this tournament. Expect to see more games with a slower pace and more players cramping as this heat will play a factor.

The greatest show in the world is ready. Are you? 🏆#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/ISxLhuLUkm

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) April 1, 2026

The team I expect to win this year has not won since 2010. I believe this is the year that the Spanish team is destined to win the World Cup. Having a more experienced and two-time Kopa trophy winner Lamine Yamal paired with a 2024 Ballon d’Or winner in Rodri, along with former Kopa trophy winner Pedri and Nico Williams who received a nomination for Ballon d’Or will overtake anybody who tries to defy them. Spain is also projected to have Unai Simón as their goalkeeper.

Simon has earned the LaLiga Zamora Trophy given to the goalkeeper with the goals-to-game ratio. This is a team that has been close in the past but has lacked experience. Now that their main pieces have experience and have played together, I believe this team will be your 2026 World Cup Champions.