In nearly a century of World Cups, only eight nations have ever lifted the trophy. As the 2026 tournament heads towards its final, here is the roll of honour the new champions are chasing.
The record holders
Brazil stand alone at the top with five titles, won in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002. Behind them come Germany and Italy, each with four, followed by Argentina on three after their dramatic 2022 triumph. France and Uruguay have two apiece, while England and Spain have each won the tournament once.
An exclusive club
What stands out is how hard the World Cup is to win. Only two nations from outside Europe and South America have ever reached a final, and no host from those regions had lifted it until recent decades. Every champion so far has come from just those two continents.
Can 2026 change the map?
With 48 teams and more nations than ever dreaming big, the expanded format gives outsiders a longer run at the knockouts. Breaking into this club is still football's hardest task, but a first-time winner would be the story of the tournament.