Only eight nations have ever won the World Cup. Before 2026 adds a 23rd name to the list of finals, here is the complete history.
Titles by country
| Country | Titles | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil | 5 | 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002 |
| Germany | 4 | 1954, 1974, 1990, 2014 |
| Italy | 4 | 1934, 1938, 1982, 2006 |
| Argentina | 3 | 1978, 1986, 2022 |
| France | 2 | 1998, 2018 |
| Uruguay | 2 | 1930, 1950 |
| England | 1 | 1966 |
| Spain | 1 | 2010 |
The patterns worth knowing
Every single World Cup has been won by a European or South American team. Host nations have won six times, though none since France in 1998. And Brazil remains the only country to play in all 22 tournaments, a streak that continues in 2026.
Argentina arrives as defending champion after the 2022 final against France in Qatar, which went to penalties and is widely called the greatest final ever played. Lionel Messi has suggested 2026 could be his last tournament, which alone guarantees record audiences for every Argentina match.
What 2026 could add to the history books
A few live storylines. Argentina can join Italy and Germany on four titles. France can become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win after reaching three straight finals if results fall their way. And with 48 teams, the odds of a first ever champion from outside Europe and South America are mathematically better than they have ever been, even if nobody quite believes it yet.
Following along is free in much of the world. Our country by country guide shows where.
Frequently asked questions
Who has won the most World Cups?
Brazil, with five titles: 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.
Who won the last World Cup?
Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, beating France on penalties in the final.
Has a host nation ever won the World Cup?
Yes, six times: Uruguay 1930, Italy 1934, England 1966, West Germany 1974, Argentina 1978 and France 1998.