As the calendar turns to 2026, the sporting world braces for a monumental year packed with flagship events. The FIFA World Cup in North America, the Winter Olympics in Italy, and golf's Majors headline a schedule brimming with anticipation, particularly for British fans.
England's World Cup Verdict: Hope Tempered by Reality
The central question for the nation is whether Gareth Southgate's successor, Thomas Tuchel, can guide the Three Lions to their first World Cup triumph since 1966. Mirror Sport's panel of experts delivered a unified, if cautious, assessment.
Andy Dunn believes England can win but predicts they won't. He points to a squad with clear strengths but lingering weaknesses, notably an over-reliance on captain Harry Kane for goals and a defence yet to be tested by elite opposition in competitive matches.
Jeremy Cross echoes this sentiment, citing historical precedent. He notes England's tendency to be "found out" in the latter stages of recent tournaments and suggests a quarter-final exit might be their limit, despite the talent at Tuchel's disposal.
While John Cross affirms England definitely have the capability to win, he identifies Spain, Argentina, and France as stronger contenders, tipping Spain for ultimate glory. Neil McLeman adds that while England's qualifying record is excellent, they haven't faced a top-tier team yet, and he makes Argentina his favourites to retain the trophy.
Stars Poised for a Career-Defining 2026
Beyond the World Cup, several individuals are tipped for a breakthrough year. Golfer Tommy Fleetwood is a unanimous pick following a stellar 2025 where he won the FedEx Cup and starred in Europe's Ryder Cup victory. With The Open returning to Royal Birkdale, near his Southport home, experts believe his first Major championship is imminent, potentially even at the Masters.
Harry Kane is highlighted by John Cross as a player who could cap his remarkable career by leading England to World Cup glory, winning the Golden Boot, and potentially the Ballon d'Or. Scottish golfer Bob MacIntyre is also named as a contender for a maiden Major, with the Masters cited as a favourable venue for left-handers.
In winter sports, all eyes will be on teenage snowboarder Mia Brookes, who carries Team GB's medal hopes at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
What Sport Needs More and Less Of in 2026
The panel's wishes for the new year reveal common frustrations. A strong desire for more free-to-air sporting action is voiced, with the accessible World Cup broadcast model held up as an ideal. There are also calls for greater sportsmanship, with cheating—particularly simulation in football—singled out as a blight on the game.
Conversely, the use of VAR in football is a prime candidate for reduction. Critics argue it has sapped spontaneity and passion from matches, creating confusion and lengthy delays. Another plea is for a move away from an over-reliance on set-pieces in football towards more flair and technical skill, and a reduction in player burnout caused by an increasingly congested global calendar.
As 2026 unfolds, these predictions and hopes will be put to the test across the world's stadiums, slopes, and fairways, offering drama, redemption, and the raw emotion that only elite sport can provide.
