With the 2026 World Cup in North America just under three weeks away, we assess the leading contenders at the first 48-team finals, with world rankings in brackets:
France (1)
Les Bleus have won the World Cup twice and lost two finals on penalties in the past seven editions. This will be their last tournament before long-serving coach Didier Deschamps steps down. “It’s a strange feeling,” Deschamps said, acknowledging his tenure since 2012.
France beat Brazil 2-1 in March and followed with a 3-1 win over Colombia using a different starting lineup, with both matches played in the U.S.
Unbeaten in nine games since last June, France boast a fearsome attack featuring Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Rayan Cherki. They will take some stopping.
