As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Spain's national football team, La Roja, is emerging as a favorite in prediction markets, with an implied probability of 17% to win the tournament. This strong positioning is backed by their impressive 28-game unbeaten streak, which includes victories over formidable opponents such as England, France, and Germany. The team's success is attributed not only to their recent performances but also to a generation of players at their peak, including 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who has excelled with 15 goals and 11 assists in La Liga this season. Key midfielder Rodri, who won the 2024 Ballon d'Or, is pivotal for Spain's chances, although his recent ACL injury raises concerns about his fitness ahead of the tournament.

Spain's group stage matches begin on June 15 against Cape Verde, ranked 69th in FIFA rankings. They are expected to win comfortably, with prediction markets pricing Spain at -1,011 for the match. Subsequent games against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay will test their squad depth and tactical adaptability, especially under the unpredictable Marcelo Bielsa. The expanded format of the World Cup, featuring 48 teams, allows Spain to leverage their squad depth, enabling them to rotate players without losing quality. This structural advantage positions Spain as a strong contender, despite injury uncertainties surrounding some key players.