England head coach Thomas Tuchel has dismissed the notion that his side are among the heavy favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, despite bookmakers listing them as third favourites behind Argentina and France.
Speaking ahead of England's friendly against Costa Rica, Tuchel pointed to the country's 60-year wait for a major trophy since their 1966 World Cup triumph as a reason why they cannot be considered favourites alongside proven winners.
Tuchel's assessment of England's chances
“We're not the top favourites,” Tuchel stated. “We can't be because we haven't won it for so many years. There are proven winners in the tournament with more success.”
The German coach acknowledged England's recent progress, including back-to-back European Championship finals and World Cup semi-final and quarter-final appearances, but insisted that history prevents them from being labelled as heavy favourites.
“We see ourselves as competitors and challengers”
Tuchel emphasised the need for a focused approach: “We see ourselves as competitors and challengers. We want to go all the way but I don't think we are the heavy favourites.”
He added: “If you get to two Euros finals, and reach semi-finals and quarter-finals of the World Cup, then you are there – then you can win it. Then maybe it just takes a bit of luck or whatever. I strongly believe we are there, but I also believe we are not the favourites because of the history.”
The England manager stressed the importance of hard work and discipline: “It also requires a calm mindset and focus on our steps. If we want to reach the top of the mountain, we need to start the journey step by step. Otherwise, we’ll get distracted.”
World Cup group stage opponents
England will face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in their group, with a potential last-16 tie against a host nation looming. The tournament in North America is expected to be highly competitive, with several teams vying for glory.
Tuchel concluded: “I have belief. We all have belief and a dream. But it comes with hard work, responsibility, commitment and discipline – and sometimes disappointment. That’s all part of it. But we dare to dream, and that’s important.”
