Kuala lumpur: The four-year wait is over. Football's grandest stage is ready to raise its curtain once again as the 2026 World Cup prepares to unite the game's finest talents in what promises to be a fiercer, more dramatic and more unpredictable showdown than ever before. This edition is historic in its own right, not only because it will be staged across three nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada, but also because, for the first time, 48 teams will battle for the sport's most prestigious trophy, making it the largest World Cup since the tournament's birth in Uruguay in 1930.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, with more teams, more matches, and more extraordinary stories waiting to unfold, the anticipation among fans worldwide has reached a fever pitch as the tournament kicks off today (early Friday morning, Malaysian time) and runs through July 19. Predictions are already flying in about which team has what it takes to lift the trophy.
Here's a look at who fans, media pundits, athletes, and industry insiders are tipping as their favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, Editor-in-Chief at Bernama, picks France due to their wealth of quality players, including Kylian Mbapp©. Ashwad Ismail, Director of Broadcasting at RTM, favours Brazil, highlighting their iconic "Samba" football style.
Datuk Christopher Raj, CEO of ShekhinahPR, and Nor Hamzie Md Hambali, Director at Rotikaya Media Sdn Bhd, both choose Japan for their tactical discipline and the experience of players in Europe.
Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister, opts for England, citing their squad depth and the influence of Jude Bellingham. Tan Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria, President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, sees Spain as top contenders due to their balanced squad and European champion status.
Rexy Mainaky, National Badminton Doubles Coaching Director, also supports England for their complete squad and historical credibility. R. Sharmendran, National Karate Squad Coach, believes in Portugal's balanced squad with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Nurul Azurin Mazlan, Goalkeeper for Malayan Tigress, backs Argentina, emphasizing their team spirit and Lionel Messi's presence. Nur Mecca Rania Mohd Hazri, National Women's Football Player, sees both Portugal and France as major contenders.
Syazwan Msar, a sports journalist at Harian Metro, supports France for their balanced squad led by Mbapp©. Rizal Hashim, former sports journalist, bets on Brazil due to the tournament conditions favouring their players.
With so many contrasting predictions from sports leaders, media figures, and athletes alike, one thing is clear: the 2026 World Cup promises to be one of the most open and unpredictable tournaments in history. Whether it's the tactical discipline of Japan, the flair of Brazil, or the balanced squads of France and England, each voice offers a compelling case for their favourite. Ultimately, the pitch will deliver the final answer, and the world will be watching every moment as a new champion is crowned.