The last time when each World Cup nation won it

A complete breakdown of championship droughts, redemption quests, and nations still chasing their first World Cup title

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 nations with vastly different histories and championship credentials. Some arrive as five-time winners with glorious legacies. Others have reached finals but never lifted the trophy. Many have never progressed beyond early rounds. And several will be making their World Cup debut, chasing dreams of impossible glory.

This comprehensive guide examines every qualified nation's World Cup championship history, when they last won (if ever), how long their drought has lasted, their closest calls, and what 2026 represents in their quest for football immortality.

The Champions: Nations That Have Won the World Cup

Only 8 nations in football history have ever won the World Cup. Of these, 7 have qualified for the 2026 tournament (Italy may join via playoffs).

Brazil, 5 World Cup Titles

Last Won: 2002 (24 years ago)
Championships: 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002
Runner-up: 1950, 1998
Current Drought: 24 years

Championship History

Brazil are the most successful World Cup nation in history with five titles, more than any other country. Their dominance from 1958-2002 saw them win four tournaments in 44 years, establishing themselves as football's ultimate powerhouse.

The Seleção's 2002 triumph in South Korea/Japan was their most recent, with Ronaldo (the original) scoring twice in the final against Germany. That team featured legends like Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho, Brazil's last truly great generation.

The 24-Year Drought

Since 2002, Brazil have experienced their longest World Cup drought since first winning in 1958. They've reached:

• 2006: Quarter-finals (lost to France)
• 2010: Quarter-finals (lost to Netherlands)
• 2014: Fourth place (7-1 semi-final loss to Germany at home)
• 2018: Quarter-finals (lost to Belgium)
• 2022: Quarter-finals (lost to Croatia on penalties)

Brazil's inability to win since 2002 represents their longest championship drought in the modern era. The 7-1 defeat to Germany in the 2014 semi-final on home soil remains the most traumatic moment in Brazilian football history.

2026 Redemption Quest

Brazil enter 2026 desperate to end their drought and reclaim their status as football's dominant force. With talented players like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, they have the quality to win. However, tactical questions and mental fragility in knockout rounds remain concerns.

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Germany, 4 World Cup Titles

Last Won: 2014 (12 years ago)
Championships: 1954, 1974, 1990, 2014
Runner-up: 1966, 1982, 1986, 2002
Current Drought: 12 years

Championship History

Germany (including West Germany) have won four World Cups, tied for second-most all-time with Italy. They're the most consistent tournament performers in history, reaching eight finals and four additional semi-finals.

Their 2014 triumph in Brazil was their most recent, with Mario Götze's extra-time goal defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. That tournament featured Germany's 7-1 demolition of Brazil in the semi-final, one of the most shocking results in World Cup history.

Recent Struggles

Since winning in 2014, Germany experienced unprecedented failures:

• 2018: Group stage elimination (first since 1938)
• 2022: Group stage elimination (second consecutive)

These back-to-back group stage exits shocked the football world. Germany, masters of tournament football, suddenly couldn't navigate the easiest stage. The decline exposed tactical rigidity and generational transition problems.

2026 Redemption Quest

Germany enter 2026 determined to restore their reputation. With exciting young talents like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, they've rebuilt. Never bet against Germany at a World Cup, their tournament pedigree and winning mentality remain formidable.

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Italy, 4 World Cup Titles (Playoff Dependent)

Last Won: 2006 (20 years ago)
Championships: 1934, 1938, 1982, 2006
Runner-up: 1970, 1994
Current Drought: 20 years
Tournament Status: Must win March 2026 playoffs to qualify

Championship History

Italy are four-time world champions, tied with Germany for second-most titles. The Azzurri's 2006 triumph in Germany was their most recent, with Italy defeating France on penalties in the final after Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi.

Italy are renowned for defensive excellence, tactical sophistication, and tournament resilience. Their World Cup record is among football's most impressive.

The Unthinkable: Missing Two Consecutive World Cups

Since 2006, Italy have experienced their most painful period:

• 2010: Group stage elimination
• 2014: Group stage elimination
• 2018: Failed to qualify (lost playoff to Sweden)
• 2022: Failed to qualify (lost playoff to North Macedonia)

Four-time champions Italy missing two consecutive World Cups is unprecedented. The playoff defeats, first to Sweden, then to North Macedonia, were humiliating for Italian football.

2026: Qualification Still Uncertain

Italy must win their March 2026 playoff path to reach the tournament. If they qualify, they'll arrive desperate to prove they remain elite. If they fail again, Italian football faces existential crisis. The potential redemption story, or continued disaster, makes Italy's playoff path compelling viewing.

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Argentina, 3 World Cup Titles

Last Won: 2022 (4 years ago)
Championships: 1978, 1986, 2022
Runner-up: 1930, 1990, 2014
Current Drought: 0 years (defending champions)

Championship History

Argentina are the defending World Cup champions, having won their third title in Qatar 2022. That triumph ended a 36-year drought dating back to Diego Maradona's heroics in 1986.

The 2022 victory was particularly emotional for Lionel Messi, who finally won the only trophy that had eluded him. Argentina defeated France on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw in arguably the greatest World Cup final ever played.

The 36-Year Drought (1986-2022)

Between Maradona's 1986 triumph and Messi's 2022 victory, Argentina endured three final defeats:

• 1990: Lost 1-0 to West Germany
• 2014: Lost 1-0 to Germany (Messi's heartbreak)
• 2022: Won on penalties vs France (Messi's redemption)

The drought was particularly painful because Argentina reached three finals but couldn't win. Messi's quest to match Maradona's achievement became a national obsession.

2026: Back-to-Back Quest

Argentina arrive in 2026 as defending champions and aiming to become the first team since Brazil (1958, 1962) to win consecutive World Cups. Messi will be 38, this is certainly his final World Cup. Can he lead Argentina to unprecedented back-to-back titles? The emotional weight will be enormous.

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France, 2 World Cup Titles

Last Won: 2018 (8 years ago)
Championships: 1998, 2018
Runner-up: 2006, 2022
Current Drought: 8 years

Championship History

France have won two World Cups, both representing golden eras for French football. Their 1998 home triumph saw Zinedine Zidane lead France to their first title, defeating Brazil 3-0 in the final. Twenty years later, France won again in Russia 2018, with Kylian Mbappé emerging as a global superstar in a 4-2 final victory over Croatia.

Recent Consistency

Since 1998, France have been remarkably consistent:

• 1998: Winners (home)
• 2002: Group stage (shocking elimination as holders)
• 2006: Runners-up (lost on penalties to Italy)
• 2010: Group stage (player mutiny disaster)
• 2014: Quarter-finals
• 2018: Winners
• 2022: Runners-up (lost on penalties to Argentina)

France have reached four of the last six World Cup finals, an extraordinary record. Their 2022 penalty shootout defeat to Argentina after a 3-3 thriller denied them back-to-back titles.

2026: Dynasty Aspirations

France arrive in 2026 with arguably the deepest squad in world football. Mbappé will be 27, entering his absolute prime. France have the quality to win and establish a dynasty. Their consistency and talent make them clear favorites.

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Spain, 1 World Cup Title

Last Won: 2010 (16 years ago)
Championships: 2010
Runner-up: Never
Current Drought: 16 years

Championship History

Spain won their only World Cup in 2010 in South Africa, with Andrés Iniesta's extra-time goal defeating Netherlands 1-0 in the final. That victory came during Spain's golden era, sandwiched between European Championship victories in 2008 and 2012.

Spain's 2010-2012 dominance, winning three consecutive major tournaments, represented one of football's greatest-ever periods. Their tiki-taka style revolutionized the game.

Post-Golden Era Struggles

Since winning in 2010, Spain have struggled to recapture that magic:

• 2014: Group stage elimination (shocking early exit as holders)
• 2018: Round of 16 (lost on penalties to Russia)
• 2022: Round of 16 (lost on penalties to Morocco)

Spain's inability to advance beyond the Round of 16 since 2010 is puzzling given their talent. Penalty shootout defeats in consecutive tournaments exposed mental fragility.

2026: Renaissance in Progress

Spain enter 2026 as the world's top-ranked team and reigning European champions (Euro 2024). With generational talents like Lamine Yamal and a perfect blend of youth and experience, Spain are favorites to win. Their 16-year drought could end emphatically.

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England, 1 World Cup Title

Last Won: 1966 (60 years ago)
Championships: 1966
Runner-up: Never (at World Cup)
Current Drought: 60 years

Championship History

England won their only World Cup as hosts in 1966, defeating West Germany 4-2 in extra time at Wembley Stadium. Geoff Hurst's controversial "goal that never was" and his final-minute strike secured victory. That remains England's only major tournament triumph.

The 60-Year Drought

Since 1966, England have never reached another World Cup final. Their best performances:

• 1990: Semi-finals (lost on penalties to West Germany)
• 2018: Semi-finals (lost 2-1 to Croatia)
• 2022: Quarter-finals (lost 2-1 to France)

England's 60-year title drought is painful for a nation that invented football. Despite reaching Euro 2020 and 2024 finals (both lost), World Cup success remains elusive. The weight of 1966 creates enormous pressure.

2026: Golden Generation Opportunity

England qualified with a perfect record (8 wins, 0 goals conceded). This generation, featuring Kane, Bellingham, Saka, and Foden, represents England's most talented squad since 1966. The 60-year anniversary adds emotional significance. Can they finally bring football home?

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Uruguay, 2 World Cup Titles

Last Won: 1950 (76 years ago)
Championships: 1930, 1950
Runner-up: Never
Current Drought: 76 years

Championship History

Uruguay won the first World Cup in 1930 as hosts, then shocked Brazil at the Maracanã in 1950 to win their second title. The "Maracanazo", defeating Brazil 2-1 in front of 173,000 heartbroken Brazilians, remains one of football's greatest upsets.

Uruguay also won 15 Copa América titles, establishing them as South American giants despite their tiny population (3.5 million).

The 76-Year Drought

Uruguay haven't won a World Cup since 1950, the longest drought of any former champion. Since then:

• 1954: Semi-finals
• 1970: Semi-finals
• 2010: Fourth place (best recent performance)
• Multiple: Quarter-finals and Round of 16 exits

Uruguay's 2010 fourth-place finish represented their closest approach to past glory, with Luis Suárez and Diego Forlán leading them to the semi-finals before losing to Netherlands.

2026: Aging Warriors

Uruguay arrive in 2026 facing generational transition. Their 76-year drought is unlikely to end, though their fighting spirit and quality (particularly Federico Valverde) keep them competitive. For Uruguay, just competing remains an achievement given their small population.

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The Nearly Men: Nations That Reached Finals But Never Won

Several nations have tasted World Cup final heartbreak but never lifted the trophy. These teams carry the psychological burden of knowing they came so close yet fell short.

Netherlands, 3 Final Defeats

World Cup Titles: 0
Finals Reached: 1974, 1978, 2010
Result: Lost all three
Best Performance: Runners-up (three times)

The Three Final Heartbreaks

The Netherlands are the greatest team never to win a World Cup. They've reached three finals and lost all three:

• 1974: Lost 2-1 to West Germany (home advantage for Germany)
• 1978: Lost 3-1 to Argentina (after extra time)
• 2010: Lost 1-0 to Spain (Iniesta's extra-time winner)

The 1974 team featuring Johan Cruyff and "Total Football" is considered one of the best never to win. The 2010 defeat was particularly painful, Netherlands' negative tactics against Spain's beauty backfired.

2026: Another Chance?

The Netherlands qualified smoothly for 2026. While not favorites, they're organized, difficult to beat, and possess enough quality to reach later stages. Their quest to finally win their first World Cup continues.

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Croatia, 1 Final Defeat

World Cup Titles: 0
Finals Reached: 2018
Result: Lost 4-2 to France
Best Performance: Runners-up (2018), Third place (2022)

The Remarkable Runs

Croatia's two consecutive World Cup medal performances (2018 runners-up, 2022 third place) are extraordinary for a nation of just 4 million people. Their 2018 run to the final, including three consecutive extra-time victories, showcased incredible mental strength.

The 2018 final defeat to France was painful but didn't diminish Croatia's achievement. They've established themselves as consistent World Cup overachievers.

2026: Aging Golden Generation

Croatia arrive in 2026 with their golden generation aging. Luka Modrić will be 40. This may be their final chance to win with this group. They remain dangerous, never underestimate Croatian resilience, but winning would require everything falling perfectly.

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Perennial Contenders Who Have Never Won

Several nations consistently reach World Cups and often advance deep into tournaments but have never won the ultimate prize.

Portugal

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Third place (1966), Fourth place (2006)
Finals Reached: Never

Portugal have never reached a World Cup final despite producing legends like Eusébio and Cristiano Ronaldo. Their best performance was third place in 1966 in England. Portugal won Euro 2016 but the World Cup remains elusive. At 41 in 2026, this is Ronaldo's final chance to win football's biggest prize.

Belgium

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Third place (2018)
Finals Reached: Never

Belgium's "Golden Generation" reached third place in 2018 but never broke through to win. Their semi-final defeat to France in 2018 was their closest approach. By 2026, this generation will be past its peak. Belgium's window to win is closing.

Poland

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Third place (1974, 1982)
Finals Reached: Never

Poland twice finished third (1974, 1982) but never reached a final. If they qualify via playoffs for 2026, Robert Lewandowski will be 36, his final chance to impact a World Cup. Poland have the quality but lack tournament-winning pedigree.

Mexico

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Quarter-finals (1970, 1986, both as hosts)
Finals Reached: Never

Mexico have reached the World Cup 17 times but never advanced beyond quarter-finals. Their "quinto partido" (fifth match) curse has seen them stuck at the Round of 16 at seven consecutive tournaments (1994-2018). As 2026 co-hosts, Mexico hope home advantage helps them finally break through.

Switzerland

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Quarter-finals (1934, 1938, 1954)
Finals Reached: Never

Switzerland have qualified for 12 World Cups and reached quarter-finals three times (all in the 1930s-1950s). Modern Switzerland are consistent qualifiers but struggle to advance deep into tournaments. They're reliable but lack the star power to win.

Japan

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Round of 16 (2002, 2010, 2018, 2022)
Finals Reached: Never

Japan have reached the Round of 16 at four consecutive World Cups but never advanced further. They consistently perform well in group stages but face a psychological barrier in knockout rounds. Breaking through to quarter-finals remains Japan's obsession.

South Korea

World Cup Titles: 0
Best Performance: Fourth place (2002 as co-hosts)
Finals Reached: Never

South Korea's 2002 fourth-place finish as co-hosts remains Asia's best World Cup performance. However, their run was controversial, with questionable refereeing decisions helping them defeat Italy and Spain. Since then, Korea have struggled to replicate that success.

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Regular Participants Who Have Never Advanced Deep

Many nations regularly qualify for World Cups but have never reached semi-finals or finals.

Notable Examples:

• Australia: Round of 16 best (2006, 2022)
• Senegal: Quarter-finals best (2002)
• Morocco: Fourth place (2022), Africa's best performance
• Ghana: Quarter-finals (2010), agonizingly close to semi-finals
• Colombia: Quarter-finals best (2014)
• Ecuador: Round of 16 best (2006)
• Iran: Never advanced beyond group stage
• Saudi Arabia: Round of 16 best (1994)
• Tunisia: Never advanced beyond group stage
• Algeria: Round of 16 best (2014)

World Cup Debutants in 2026

Several nations will compete at their first World Cup in 2026, making every match historic regardless of results.

Confirmed Debutants:

• Curaçao: Smallest nation ever to qualify (160,000 population)
• Cabo Verde: Island nation achieving remarkable feat
• Uzbekistan: Central Asia's breakthrough
• Jordan: Middle East's unlikely qualifier

Potential Debutants (Playoff Dependent):

• Kosovo: Young nation seeking first World Cup
• Albania: Never qualified before
• North Macedonia: Giant-killers (beat Italy in 2022 playoffs)
• DR Congo: Seeking first World Cup since Zaire in 1974
• Suriname: Small South American nation
• Iraq: Returning after long absence
• Bolivia: Seeking first World Cup since 1994
• Jamaica: Returning since 1998
• New Caledonia: Pacific island nation

For these nations, simply participating represents historic achievement. Winning the tournament is impossibly unlikely, but creating memories and gaining experience are invaluable.

Nations Returning After Long Absences

Scotland, 27 Years Since Last World Cup

Last World Cup: 1998
Previous Appearances: 8 tournaments
Best Performance: Group stage (never advanced beyond)

Scotland's emotional return after 27 years followed their dramatic 4-2 extra-time victory over Denmark. Scotland have never advanced beyond the group stage in eight previous attempts, breaking that curse is their 2026 obsession.

Haiti, 52 Years Since Last World Cup

Last World Cup: 1974
Previous Appearances: 1 tournament
Best Performance: Group stage (3 losses, 0 goals in 1974)

Haiti's return after 52 years is the tournament's most emotional story. Their qualification despite immense national challenges represents triumph over adversity. Simply competing is victory for Haiti.

Potential: Wales, 68 Years Since Last World Cup

Last World Cup: 1958 (if they qualify via playoffs)
Previous Appearances: 1 tournament
Best Performance: Quarter-finals (1958)

If Wales qualify through March playoffs, their return after 68 years would be historic. Wales reached the 1958 quarter-finals, exceeding that would be their goal.

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Championship Drought Rankings

Former Champions (by drought length):

1. Uruguay: 76 years (last won 1950)
2. England: 60 years (last won 1966)
3. Brazil: 24 years (last won 2002)
4. Italy: 20 years (last won 2006), playoff dependent
5. Spain: 16 years (last won 2010)
6. Germany: 12 years (last won 2014)
7. France: 8 years (last won 2018)
8. Argentina: 4 years (last won 2022), defending champions

Never Won (by historical significance):

1. Netherlands: 3 final defeats (1974, 1978, 2010)
2. Croatia: 1 final defeat (2018), 3rd place (2022)
3. Portugal: Never reached final, 3rd place (1966)
4. Belgium: Never reached final, 3rd place (2018)
5. Poland: Never reached final, 3rd place (1974, 1982)
6. Mexico: Never beyond quarter-finals

Most Painful Near-Misses

Brazil 1950, The Maracanazo

Brazil needed only a draw against Uruguay in the final match to win at home. They lost 2-1 in front of 173,000 people. This remains Brazil's greatest trauma.

Netherlands 1974, Total Football Denied

The greatest team never to win. Johan Cruyff's Total Football revolutionized the game but lost 2-1 to West Germany in the final.

Brazil 2014, The 7-1

Brazil lost 7-1 to Germany in the semi-final at home. The worst defeat in their history. The humiliation still haunts Brazilian football.

England 1990, Gazza's Tears

England lost on penalties to West Germany in the semi-final. Paul Gascoigne's tears captured a nation's heartbreak. England's best chance since 1966 slipped away.

Netherlands 2010, Negative Tactics Backfire

Netherlands played cynically against Spain's beautiful football and lost 1-0 to Iniesta's extra-time goal. They should have played their natural game.

Ghana 2010, Suárez Handball

Luis Suárez's deliberate handball denied Ghana a certain winning goal in the quarter-final. Ghana missed the subsequent penalty and lost the shootout. Africa's best chance for a semi-final was stolen.

Redemption Stories to Watch in 2026

England, 60 Years of Hurt

England's golden generation has one more chance to end the 60-year drought. The weight of history is enormous but so is the talent.

Brazil, Reclaiming Greatness

Brazil desperately need to prove they're still football's greatest nation. Twenty-four years without winning is unacceptable for five-time champions.

Netherlands, Fourth Time Lucky?

Can the Netherlands finally win after three final defeats? Their quest to end the curse of being the best team never to win continues.

Mexico, Breaking the Fifth Game Curse

As co-hosts, Mexico have their best chance ever to reach quarter-finals and beyond. Home advantage could finally break their Round of 16 curse.

Italy, Proving They Still Belong (If They Qualify)

Four-time champions missing two consecutive World Cups is unthinkable. If Italy qualify via playoffs, they'll play with point-proving fury.

Messi's Final Dance

Can Argentina become the first team since Brazil (1958, 1962) to win back-to-back World Cups? Messi at 38 makes this his farewell.

Ronaldo's Last Chance

Cristiano Ronaldo will be 41 in 2026. This is definitively his final World Cup. Can Portugal finally win to complete his legacy?

Statistical Breakdown

Of 48 Qualified Nations (including playoff spots):

• 8 have won the World Cup (7 qualified, Italy playoff dependent)
• 13 have reached semi-finals (including the 8 champions)
• 20 have reached quarter-finals
• 35+ have participated before
• 4-6 will be debutants (depending on playoff results)

Combined World Cup Titles of 2026 Participants:

• Brazil: 5
• Germany: 4
• Italy: 4 (if qualified)
• Argentina: 3
• France: 2
• Uruguay: 2
• England: 1
• Spain: 1
• Total: 22 titles among 8 nations

Will 2026 Produce a New Champion?

The question everyone asks: Could a nation win their first World Cup in 2026?

Most Likely First-Time Winners:

1. Netherlands: Most talented never-winners, but curse persists
2. Portugal: If Ronaldo can inspire one final miracle
3. Croatia: Aging but never underestimate their resilience
4. Belgium: Golden Generation's final chance but aging rapidly

Dark Horse First-Time Winners:

• Colombia: Exciting attacking team with Copa America final experience
• Morocco: 2022 semi-finalists showed African teams can compete
• USA: Home advantage could carry them further than expected

Reality Check:

History suggests established powers win World Cups. Only 8 nations have ever won in 22 tournaments. Breaking through requires extraordinary circumstances, exceptional talent, favorable draws, home advantage, and luck.

The Netherlands' three final defeats show how hard it is to win even when you reach the final. First-time winners are rare, the last was Spain in 2010.

Conclusion

The 2026 World Cup brings together 48 nations with vastly different championship histories. Eight have tasted glory, many have come agonizingly close, and several will compete at their first World Cup.

For defending champions Argentina, it's about dynasty. For Brazil, it's about reclaiming greatness after 24 years. For England, it's about ending 60 years of hurt. For Uruguay, 76 years of drought weighs heavily. For the Netherlands, it's about finally winning after three final heartbreaks.

For nations like Curaçao, Haiti, and Uzbekistan, simply participating is the dream realized. For Mexico as co-hosts, it's about finally breaking the fifth-game curse. For the USA, home advantage presents their best-ever chance at glory.

History shows that established powers usually win, but World Cups also produce magic, upsets, and redemption stories that transcend expectations. The 2026 tournament will add new chapters to these nations' quests for football immortality.

Whether it's a traditional power reclaiming their throne, a perennial contender finally breaking through, or an impossible underdog story, the 48-team format ensures more nations than ever get their chance to chase the ultimate prize.

One team will lift the trophy on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium. For that nation, the wait, whether 4 years or 76 years or forever, will finally be over.

Witness history as nations chase World Cup glory. Secure your World Cup tickets through Livefootballtickets.com to experience redemption quests unfold. From Argentina defending their title to England chasing 60 years of hurt, from Brazil seeking to reclaim greatness to debutants making history, every match tells a story. Get your MetLife Stadium tickets for the final where one nation's championship drought will end, or witness the drama across all 16 venues from Estadio Azteca to BC Place.