We asked AI to predict the 2026 World Cup – Here’s who wins

The supercomputer has spoken..

While, for the first time this century, England can claim to be led by one of the few truly elite coaches in world football, in Thomas Tuchel, they'll still have to overcome the likes of European champions Spain, Kylian Mbappe's France and even defending champions Argentina, alongside a host of other elite sides.

As with every past tournament, from Brazil's 7-1 humiliation in 2014 or Morocco's implausible run to the semis last time out, a World Cup is just about the most difficult-to-predict event in the global sporting calendar.

Even in past years, when the tournaments were contested by just 32 nations, rather than the new-look 48, it was brutally difficult to win a World Cup, even for the greatest of teams, and those with limitless resources.

So for this new extended edition, you'll need a perfect combination of luck, talent, and opportunity to get all the way to final.

However, with so much on the line, as the nation chooses their office sweepstakes or debates a last minute flight to North America, we all need of a realistic estimation of who the winners might be.

In order to eliminate all bias, we've requested the support of the machines — in the shape of AI chatbot ChatGPT, to tell us who is the most likely winner.

ChatGPT has crunched the numbers, looked at the underlying stats, and given us the best prediction possible.

How will England get on?

ChatGPT said: "England enter the tournament with genuine expectations rather than hope.

"The squad is arguably stronger than the teams that reached the Euro 2020 and Euro 2024 finals. Harry Kane remains a reliable goalscorer, Jude Bellingham has developed into a complete midfielder, and Declan Rice provides stability in midfield. England's depth at full-back, centre-back and attacking midfield is among the best in the tournament.

"The biggest question is whether England can consistently beat elite opponents in knockout football.

"Previous England teams have often fallen just short against the very best sides despite excellent tournament runs.

"Thomas Tuchel's appointment could be crucial because of his tactical adaptability and experience winning major knockout competitions.

"I expect England to navigate the group stage comfortably and reach at least the quarter-finals. A semi-final appearance feels more likely than not.

"However, I still have slight concerns about creativity against top defensive teams and their ability to control the biggest matches.

"My prediction is a semi-final exit to France, finishing among the tournament's final four."

Who will make the semi-finals?

The AI chatbot predicts three European nations will make the final four, with one from South America.

First up its Spain, with the AI elaborating: "Spain are my favourites to reach the final. They enter the tournament as the No. 1 team in Opta's (Stat experts Opta) simulations and are among the world's highest-ranked sides.

"Their midfield remains exceptional with Pedri and Rodri, while the emergence of Lamine Yamal gives them a game-breaking attacker. Spain's possession-based style is mature, balanced, and difficult to disrupt over a long tournament. They also have fewer obvious weaknesses than most rivals.

Next up it's France, with ChatGPT explaining: "France possess arguably the deepest squad in the competition.

"Kylian Mbappé remains one of the world's most decisive players, while France continue to produce elite talent in every position.

"Their World Cup record is remarkable: winners in 2018, finalists in 2022, and consistently among the strongest tournament teams. The blend of experience and athleticism makes them one of the safest bets to reach the last four."

The final European side in contention for a semi-final spot are the Three Lions, with the AI chatbot explaining: "England arrive with perhaps their most balanced squad since 1966.

"Harry Kane remains elite, Jude Bellingham is one of football's biggest stars, and the team is packed with Premier League and Champions League experience.

"Opta rates England among the top three contenders, and Thomas Tuchel's tactical flexibility may help them navigate difficult knockout matches better than previous England sides."

Filling out the final four are defending champions Argentina, according to the AI model.

It gave the following explanation: "Writing off the defending champions is dangerous.

"Argentina's mentality and tournament experience remain huge advantages.

"Even if Lionel Messi is no longer at his peak, the squad around him is stronger and deeper than many realise.

"Their ability to manage pressure situations and win tight knockout matches makes another semi-final run highly plausible."

Who comes out on top?

France and Spain are predicted by AI to both reach the final, with England and Argentina unfortunately set to bow out at the semi-final stage, but there can be only one winner.

According to AI, it will be Spain.

What did ChatGPT say: "Spain are my pick to win the 2026 World Cup.

"They are the top-rated team in Opta's simulations and have an ideal blend of youth and experience. Unlike many contenders, they do not rely heavily on one superstar.

"Their midfield controls games, their defence is technically strong, and their attack has become more direct thanks to Yamal and Williams.

"Over seven matches, that balance matters. I predict Spain defeat France in a closely fought final, becoming world champions for the second time since 2010."

So there you have it, Spain are predicted to win the World Cup, in what would be their second consecutive major tournament triumph.