France is one of the favorites at the upcoming World Cup
The former French World Cup winner spoke to Sports Talk Media for BetVictor Online Casino
Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Frank Leboeuf believes the list of serious contenders is already clear. Spain, England, France and Portugal, in his view, stand above the rest as the nations most likely to make deep runs.
Leboeuf, who lifted the 1998 FIFA World Cup with France national football team and later won UEFA Euro 2000, understands tournament football. He notes that expanded formats can dilute early intensity. With more nations involved, the group stage may lack the urgency of knockout rounds. True contenders, he suggests, reveal themselves once elimination begins.
“France have a strong group and should progress comfortably, like most teams, because so many nations are involved now,” Lebouef told Sports Talk Media for BetVictor Online Casino. “The early group stages feel closer to friendly matches than serious competition.
Four European powerhouse teams the clear favorites
France remain a powerhouse thanks to depth, athleticism, and experience. England’s young core continues to mature, blending technical quality with physical strength. Spain’s possession-based evolution has regained sharpness, while Portugal combine tactical discipline with individual brilliance.
“When the tournament becomes serious, everything depends on the draw and how matches unfold,” Leboeuf said. “However, Spain, England, France and Portugal stand out as the clear favorites.”
Tournament success, however, depends heavily on timing and draw. Injuries, suspensions, and momentum can redefine expectations overnight. A favorable bracket can propel a talented side to the semifinals; a difficult early matchup can derail even a favorite.
Leboeuf’s confidence in these four nations reflects structural strength — robust domestic leagues, elite academies, and players accustomed to Champions League intensity. These systems consistently produce footballers capable of handling global pressure.
Still, history warns against certainty. Every World Cup delivers surprises. Emerging nations grow stronger with each cycle. Tactical trends evolve rapidly. What appears predictable two years out can transform dramatically by kickoff.
For now, though, the early forecast is clear. Spain, England, France, and Portugal possess the blend of depth, experience, and star power required to chase football’s most coveted prize. As 2026 approaches, the conversation begins with them — and the rest of the world will aim to disrupt that hierarchy.
