EA Sports has once again used its simulation technology to predict the winner of the FIFA World Cup, this time for the 2026 tournament in North America. Having correctly predicted the last four winners, the company is aiming to extend its 16-year streak.
Simulation Success Since 2010
Using its old FIFA games, EA Sports has simulated each tournament since 2006. The simulated winner correctly mirrored real life at every World Cup since 2010. The competition in South Africa was the first to begin EA Sports' winning run, as the official FIFA World Cup game from that year correctly predicted Spain would finally lift the trophy against the Netherlands.
In 2014, EA Sports went two for two using the FIFA World Cup game, correctly predicting Germany's triumph in Brazil after their famous 7-1 semi-final win over the hosts. However, the simulation pointed to a Brazil-Germany final, rather than the reality of Argentina meeting the Germans.
Continued Predictions Without Official License
While the 2014 game was the last official EA Sports World Cup title, simulations continued. The World Cup update to FIFA 18 predicted France as winners in Russia, and the FIFA 23 update for the controversial Qatar tournament correctly called Argentina's victory over holders France, with Lionel Messi claiming the trophy.
Now, after EA Sports' license agreement with FIFA ended in 2023, the company used the new The World's Game mode in EA FC 26 to unofficially simulate this year's competition in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. EA Sports announced on Twitter that Spain will be the champions this summer.
Fan Reactions
Fans were unimpressed, pointing out an obvious flaw. Reddit users noted that Spain is a favorite, with one saying, 'Picking the favorites? That's bold.' Another joked, 'Fair play to them, really sticking their necks out with a bold call here.' A third commented, 'If it's any consolation, they don't have the FIFA license anymore, so they can only predict Spain will win The World's Game 2026.' Another aimed a jibe at Konami, saying, 'Konami are predicting Iberian Reds to win.'
One user pointed out that EA Sports actually got its first ever prediction wrong. A simulation for the 2006 World Cup claimed the Czech Republic would triumph in Germany, but they failed to progress out of Group E and Italy won the competition.
Who do you think will win the FIFA World Cup in 2026? Let us know in the comments below.
