Thierry Henry Names France as 2026 World Cup Favourites, Cites Back-to-Back Finals as Proof

Thierry Henry has publicly backed France to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, pointing to the squad’s depth and their record of reaching consecutive finals as the foundation for his confidence.

Speaking to Sports Illustrated, the former Arsenal and France striker was measured but direct in his assessment. “I see France as the top contender, partly because I am French, but also because we have reached the last two finals,” Henry said. “We have a strong team.”

France claimed the World Cup title in Russia in 2018 before falling at the final hurdle in Qatar in 2022, losing to Argentina on penalties after a dramatic comeback in the closing stages. That run of results places them among the most consistent sides in the tournament’s recent history, a fact Henry clearly regards as significant.

The current France squad features a concentration of elite-level talent. Kylian Mbappé leads the attacking line, supported by Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé, who holds the current Ballon d’Or. The combination of individual quality and tournament experience makes Les Bleus a formidable proposition heading into the competition.

Beyond France, Henry identified a cluster of nations capable of going deep into the tournament. England, Spain, Argentina, and Portugal were all named as genuine title contenders, reflecting the competitive spread of quality across the field at this edition of the World Cup.

Henry also left room for potential upsets from less traditional powers. He singled out Norway and Senegal as sides that could produce surprises, a nod to the growing depth of international football beyond the established elite. Senegal, in particular, have steadily developed as a continental force since winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and reaching the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup.

On Germany, Henry reserved judgment. “For Germany, I’m waiting for them to rediscover their best form,” he said — a pointed observation about a nation that has struggled to replicate its historic dominance since winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first edition to feature 48 teams, expanded from the previous 32-team format, and is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The enlarged field increases the number of potential shock results in the group stage, lending some weight to Henry’s acknowledgment of dark horse candidates.

France are widely regarded by analysts and bookmakers alike as among the frontrunners, with their blend of proven tournament pedigree and current squad quality positioning them as a consistent fixture at the top of pre-tournament predictions.