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- Spain 4/1 favourites for World Cup 2026 with bet365
- England and France joint second favourites at 13/2
- Tuchel: “We will arrive as underdogs… we have no chance unless we unite.”
Spain Lead Early Betting for World Cup 2026
With just nine months until the 2026 World Cup in North America, the early markets from UK betting sites have been released for the winner and it’s Spain who lead the field as 4/1 favourites to lift the famous trophy.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has downplayed his team’s chances, insisting that the Three Lions will travel as “underdogs” despite their impressive recent record in major tournaments.
The tournament will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, beginning in June 2026, with 48 nations competing for the first time in World Cup history.
Bet365 give a 20% implied probability of Spain winning the World Cup next year with the European Championships heading into the tournament as the in-form team.
Spain the Team to Beat
After winning Euro 2024 in dominant style, Spain have quickly become favourites to repeat that success on the world stage.
Under Luis de la Fuente, La Roja have rediscovered their trademark possession game while adding a clinical edge in attack.
The emergence of young stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams has injected pace and unpredictability giving a blend that has bettors backing Spain as early market leaders at 4/1.
England and France Joint-Second at 13/2
Despite reaching consecutive European Championship finals, England remain joint-second favourites at 13/2, level with France.
Manager Thomas Tuchel was quick to temper expectations ahead of next summer’s tournament, telling reporters this week:
“We will arrive as underdogs in the World Cup because we haven’t won it for decades. We will play against teams who have repeatedly won it during that time, so we need to arrive as a team otherwise we have no chance.”
England are on the verge of qualification, with a win over Latvia in Riga next Tuesday expected to seal their place, provided Serbia fail to win both of their remaining fixtures.
France, meanwhile, remain one of the most talented squads in the world, boasting Kylian Mbappé, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga among their core group.
The Best Football Betting Sites 2026
South American Contenders
Brazil (7/1) and Argentina (8/1) complete the top five in the betting.
Brazil continue their rebuild following Copa América disappointment, with Vinícius Jr, Rodrygo, and Endrick leading a new-look frontline.
The market suggests they are still among the strongest global sides and Carlo Ancelotti taking over boosts their chances even more.
Reigning world champions Argentina will once again rely on the experience of Lionel Messi, though his participation remains uncertain as he turns 39 next summer.
If Messi plays a final World Cup, expect Argentina’s odds to shorten significantly as the tournament approaches.
Key Tournament Info
- Host Nations: USA, Canada & Mexico
- Dates: June – July 2026
- Teams: 48
- Final Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
- Defending Champions: Argentina
Where To Bet on the World Cup 2026
Outright markets for World Cup 2026 are live now with bet365 and other leading UK betting sites.
Fans can also find enhanced specials, outright picks, and free bets across top football betting sites in the build-up to the tournament.
