A recent poll of EuroLeague players has turned heads by naming France as the clear favorite to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy. The sentiment comes from a group of athletes who, despite their basketball roots, are closely following the football tournament that will be staged across three continents.
A Tournament Redefined
The competition will be larger than ever, expanding to 48 teams and delivering 104 matches from June 11 to July 19. Host cities span Mexico, the United States and Canada, with the grand final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The opening match will see Mexico take on South Africa on June 11, setting the stage for a month‑long celebration of the sport.
Among the voices shaping the forecast, three EuroLeague imports highlighted their personal picks. Marcelinho Huertas backed Brazil, Bonzie Colson represented Cape Verde, and Dzanan Musa championed Bosnia. Meanwhile, three American players based in Europe — Alec Peters, Justin Anderson and Moses Wright — threw their support behind Team USA.
Why the Shift?
The survey reflects a broader trend of athletes from different sports engaging with global football narratives. While France gathered the most votes from European basketball stars, the inclusion of Spain, Germany and the United States shows a diversified set of expectations. This cross‑sport interest underscores the World Cup's growing cultural footprint beyond traditional football nations.
As the tournament approaches, the blend of expanded format, multinational host cities and the eclectic mix of predictions sets the stage for a historic event. Fans and analysts alike will watch how these forecasts translate into on‑field realities, especially as the world anticipates a new chapter in football's premier competition.