Vinicius Jr Names Four 2026 World Cup Favorites—Brazil Don’t Make the Cut

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has identified four nations he believes are better positioned than Brazil to lift the 2026 World Cup, even as he insists the Seleção have not surrendered hope of securing a record sixth global crown. Speaking candidly, the 24-year-old acknowledged that other countries currently hold a competitive edge heading into the expanded tournament, though he stopped short of revealing the specific quartet he favors. The admission marks a rare public concession from one of Brazil’s most influential players that the five-time champions enter the cycle chasing rather than setting the pace.

Vinicius Jr, whose pace and creativity have become central to both Real Madrid’s attack and the national team’s rebuilding project, emphasized that belief within the Brazilian camp remains intact despite external doubts. Yet his blunt assessment underscores the mounting pressure on the yellow shirt to close a gap that has seen rival powers surge ahead in recent years. With qualification pathways still unfolding and continental heavyweights refining their squads, the winger’s verdict will fuel debate among fans eager to see Brazil reclaim supremacy on the world stage.