World Cup 2026: Rio Ferdinand changes mind on country to win trophy

Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, has changed his mind on the country to win this year’s World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup will commence today, Thursday, as Mexico takes on South Africa.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, Ferdinand backed Spain to win the World Cup, having previously named France as his favourites for the tournament.

“If Didier Deschamps manages [Ousmane] Dembele and [Kylian] Mbappe, they will go and win it. Right, Kylian, your best games, the best I have seen you, are from the left,” Ferdinand said.

“You go on the left, you cut in and just slap goals, and you get six goals this tournament. Dembele, you start the press, and you finish things off and get five goals.

“[Desire] Doue on the right and [Michael] Olise in the No.10. Game over. Game over, no questions. No more questions, your honour.”

However, when put on the spot and asked to pick his World Cup winners, Ferdinand responded: “A fit Lamine Yamal, a fit Nico Williams and a fit Rodri… Spain takes some beating.

“I have been saying France every day until today.”

When asked why he had decided to change his prediction, Ferdinand replied: “I don’t know, I just thought if those boys are fit, then they go and win it.”

World Cup 2026: Rio Ferdinand changes mind on country to win trophy

Advertisement