Bookmakers favour Spain and France for 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today at 20:00 local time. It is the first edition with 48 teams and the first co‑hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Bookmakers list Spain as the top favourite at 24/5, with France priced at 5/1. England, Brazil and Argentina also appear among the favourites. The opening match pits Mexico against South Africa. The expanded 48‑team format allows two‑thirds of third‑placed teams to progress to the round of 32, giving larger nations an extra safety net. This structure favours the traditional powerhouses in the early stages. Norway’s odds would shift dramatically without Erling Haaland, currently listed at 28/1. Bet builders now let punters combine multiple group‑stage results into a single accumulator. Many bookmakers are offering sign‑up bonuses for new customers ahead of the tournament. Bet365 offers 28/1 on Spain beating Brazil in the final. Sky Bet lists Japan to win Group F at 5/2. 247Bet puts Turkey’s last‑16 qualification at 5/4 and BetMGM offers Mexico a quarter‑final spot at 15/4. Current winner odds show Spain at 49/10 (SBK), France at 5/1 (Betfred) and England at 7/1 (Sky Bet). Brazil and Argentina are both listed at 9/1 (talkSPORT BET and Tote respectively). Odds are correct as of 5 June. Luis de la Fuente leads Spain after guiding them to a Euro 2024 knockout run that included victories over Germany, France and England. His side relies on a possession‑based approach to conserve energy in North America’s heat. The Spanish squad’s coherence is highlighted by their consistent tactical style. Didier Deschamps heads France in what is expected to be his final tournament, with Zinedine Zidane slated to succeed him afterwards. A potential front four of Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue and Kylian Mbappe could dominate the attack. France’s group features Norway and Senegal among the early opponents. Thomas Tuchel manages England after omitting Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander‑Arnold from the squad. Harry Kane remains the focal striker, while Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice form a dynamic midfield partnership. England did not concede a goal during qualification. Argentina secured their third World Cup title in Qatar four years ago, with Lionel Messi lifting the trophy. The South American side is listed among the betting favourites for 2026.