Delhi NCR, Cricastar Sports Desk: Predicting the winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at this stage is highly speculative. However, based on current form, historical performance, and expert opinions, here are some of the top contenders and why:

Leading Contenders (as of April, 2025)

• Spain: They are considered strong favorites by many after their Euro 2024 victory, showcasing a blend of experienced players and exciting young talents. Their recent success and youthful energy make them a formidable team.
• France: As the 2018 World Cup winners and 2022 runners-up, France possesses immense talent and a proven track record in major tournaments. Their squad depth, spearheaded by Kylian Mbappé, makes them a constant threat.
• Argentina: The reigning World Cup champions, they have shown they can win major tournaments. Despite Lionel Messi being older, their recent success and strong team spirit cannot be discounted.  
• Brazil: With a record five World Cup titles, Brazil is always a strong contender. Their attacking talent, with players like Vinicius Jr., means they can never be ruled out.  
• Germany: A traditional footballing powerhouse, Germany is seen as a potential dark horse with a new generation of talented players emerging.

Why it’s difficult to predict:

• Time Factor: Over a year remains until the tournament, and team form can fluctuate significantly.
• Qualifiers: The final list of 48 participating teams is yet to be determined, and surprises in qualifying can change expectations.
• Tournament Dynamics: The unpredictable nature of knockout matches means that individual moments and luck can play a significant role.
• Managerial Impact: The strategies and leadership of national team managers will be crucial.

In conclusion, while Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, and Germany are among the early favorites, it is still too early to definitively predict the winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Many factors will come into play as the tournament approaches.