As the calendar flips to 2026, the sporting world braces for a monumental year packed with flagship events. From the FIFA World Cup in North America to the Winter Olympics and golf's Majors, it promises drama and glory. Mirror Sport's team of expert writers – Andy Dunn, Jeremy Cross, John Cross, and Neil McLeman – have cast their eyes forward, delivering verdicts on England's chances, breakout stars, and the changes they want to see in sport.
Can England End 60 Years of Hurt in North America?
The central question for British fans is whether Gareth Southgate's successor, Thomas Tuchel, can guide the Three Lions to World Cup glory for the first time since 1966. The consensus among our pundits is one of cautious realism.
Andy Dunn states plainly: "Yes, they can. But no, they won't." He highlights a continued over-reliance on the goals of captain Harry Kane and concerns that a defence untested by elite opposition in qualifying could be exposed.
Jeremy Cross points to historical precedent, noting England's solitary success was almost six decades ago and recent tournaments have seen the side "found out in the latter stages." He predicts a quarter-final exit might be the limit for Tuchel's squad.
John Cross offers a glimmer of more optimism, believing England "definitely" have the tools to win with their top manager and strong squad. However, he ultimately tips Spain, Argentina, or France as more likely champions.
Neil McLeman echoes the sentiment, suggesting that while victory is possible, it's improbable. He notes that Brazil and Argentina have historically triumphed in previous North American World Cups and makes the holders his favourites.
Individual Stars Poised for a Career-Defining 2026
Beyond the team pursuit, several individuals are tipped to seize the year. Golfer Tommy Fleetwood is a unanimous pick for a potential breakthrough. With a stellar 2025 behind him – including a first PGA Tour win and the FedEx Cup – the affable Southport native is backed to claim his maiden Major. The fact that The Open returns to Royal Birkdale, virtually on his doorstep, makes him a favourite for that title, with the Masters also a strong possibility.
John Cross selects Harry Kane as the individual who could crown his legendary career. Leading England to World Cup victory, winning another Golden Boot, and lifting the Ballon d'Or would represent the ultimate pinnacle for the captain.
Neil McLeman nominates Scottish golfer Bob MacIntyre, citing his PGA Tour win and near-misses at the US Open and Open Championship in 2025. A Major victory, potentially at the Masters where left-handers have a strong record, is the logical next step.
What Our Writers Want More – and Less – Of in 2026
The panel's wishes for the coming year reveal shared frustrations and hopes. A common desire is to see a reduction in gamesmanship and outright cheating, particularly in football. Dunn calls for VAR to be used to punish divers and cheats, while Cross believes simulating injury or contact should become a red-card offence.
Conversely, Cross also wants to see less VAR interference overall, arguing it has sucked spontaneity and passion from the game. John Cross hopes for a tactical shift away from an over-reliance on set-pieces towards more flair and magical individual skill.
On the positive side, Dunn champions more free-to-air sporting action, praising the World Cup's accessibility. Neil McLeman wishes for continued feel-good and redemption stories, like Rory McIlroy's 2025 Masters win, alongside a major concern for player burnout due to an increasingly congested global calendar.
Other highlights for 2026 include the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina D'Ampezzo, where British teenager Mia Brookes is a snowboarding medal hope, and a potential season of epic tennis duels between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
