[FULL LIST] FIFA World Cup champions from 1930 to 2026

The FIFA World Cup remains the most prestigious tournament in international football, with only a handful of nations having lifted the coveted trophy since the competition began in 1930.

Spain added another chapter to World Cup history after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The final was a closely contested affair, with Spain dominating possession for much of the game while Argentina struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced several outstanding saves to deny Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres and Pau Cubarsí, keeping Argentina in contention.

The match took a decisive turn in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card, reducing Argentina to 10 men heading into extra time.

Spain believed they had broken the deadlock through Nico Williams early in extra time, but the effort was ruled out for a foul during the build-up. The winning goal eventually came in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres connected with Williams’ knockdown and fired into the roof of the net.

The victory secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, having previously won the tournament in 2010. It also dashed Lionel Messi’s hopes of leading Argentina to consecutive World Cup triumphs in what is widely expected to be his final appearance at the tournament. Spain also extended their unbeaten run to 38 international matches, setting a new European record.

FIFA World Cup winners (1930–2026)