TalkSPORT predicts France, Spain joint favourites for 2026 World Cup

TalkSPORT's ultimate World Cup predictions list France and Spain as joint favourites for the 2026 tournament, with England placed third. Thomas Tuchel said England are not top favourites in North America because they have not won the trophy in many years, emphasizing the need for effort and focus. TalkSPORT Bet odds show France and Spain joint‑favourites, England third, while Argentina, Portugal and Brazil are also highlighted as strong contenders in the expanded 2026 World Cup. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink highlighted England's chance but called France the team to beat, citing Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise as a star‑studded attack; he also expressed confidence in Portugal’s squad and noted Argentina’s presence. Gary Lineker described England as an outside bet but praised their talent, and named Spain as the most likely winners after their Euro 2024 performance and victory over England in the final. Ally McCoist ruled out Scotland, named France as second favourites, and praised their recent World Cup record, including the 2018 win in Russia and the 2022 final appearance. Jeff Stelling argued that no team has defended the World Cup since 1962, but backed Argentina as defending champions, citing their ten‑point qualifying lead and a win over Brazil, questioning Brazil’s equal betting price. TalkSPORT promotes a dedicated World Cup WhatsApp channel for live updates, match ratings and debates as the tournament kicks off on Thursday.