Argentina have returned to the top of the FIFA world rankings just hours before the 2026 World Cup kicks off in North America. Lionel Scaloni's side, who are defending their title, replaced France at No 1 after friendly wins over Iceland and Honduras.
France, one of the tournament favourites, have dropped two places to third, while Spain remain in second. England hold fourth, one spot above Portugal. Morocco have risen to seventh, their highest-ever ranking, overtaking the Netherlands.
Iran have climbed to 20th for the first time. The rankings will also serve as a tiebreaker in the group stage, according to FIFA regulations, to determine the best third-placed teams advancing to the Round of 32.
Historically, being top of the rankings has not guaranteed World Cup success. Brazil were ranked first in 2022 but lost in the quarter-finals, while Germany were No 1 in 2018 and failed to progress from the group stage. Argentina themselves were second when they won the title in 2022.
