Gary Lineker names Spain and France as favourites for the 2026 World Cup, with England also among the frontrunners alongside Argentina and Brazil

Former England striker Gary Lineker has identified Spain and France as the leading favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, placing England among the chasing pack of top contenders.

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Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker noted that while England national football team remain strong contenders under current expectations, both Spain national football team and France national football team appear better positioned heading into the tournament.

He described Spain as the bookmakers’ favourites and suggested that France’s depth and recent performances also make them a major threat.

Alongside England, he grouped Argentina national football team and Brazil national football team among the traditional powerhouses expected to compete strongly.

Lineker emphasized that England are still “one of the frontrunners,” but maintained that Spain and France currently have a slight edge in overall quality and consistency.

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With England aiming to secure their first World Cup title in 60 years, expectations remain high as preparations continue under the current coaching setup.