Every Formula 1 driver’s national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, begins with 48 national teams competing for the title. Eighteen Formula 1 drivers support 11 nations, including Spain’s Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso, who back their home team as reigning European champions. The tournament’s opening matches will see teams like France, England, and Brazil vying for glory, with drivers closely following their respective national squads.

Spain’s Confidence in Home Advantage

Spain, ranked second globally by FIFA, enters the World Cup as defending European champions. Drivers Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso support a squad featuring Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Pedri, who have proven themselves on global stages. Spain’s Group H includes Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, a group seen as manageable for a team with title aspirations.

France’s Chances After Recent Success

French drivers Pierre Gasly, Esteban Ocon, and Isack Hadjar back a team that reached the 2018 World Cup final and the 2022 final, where Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick. France’s attack includes Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise, with Group I opponents Senegal, Iraq, and Norway posing a challenge. The team’s history of performing under pressure could position them as favorites.

England’s 60-Year Drought Awaits End

England, backed by five F1 drivers, aims to end a 60-year World Cup wait under new manager Thomas Tuchel. Key players include Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice. The group stage includes Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, with potential knockout-stage encounters against Spain, Brazil, or Argentina. The team’s 2022 quarterfinal run highlights their potential.

Argentina’s Quest for Back-to-Back Glory

Franco Colapinto supports Argentina, which seeks to become the first team since 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups. Lionel Messi, appearing in what is likely his final tournament, leads a squad with Julian Alvarez and Emiliano Martínez. The team’s history of dramatic moments, including the 2022 final, underscores their World Cup pedigree.

Brazil’s Legacy and Star Power

Brazil, with a record five World Cup titles, includes players like Neymar and Vinicius Jr. Driver Gabriel Bortoleto supports a team aiming for a sixth title. Manager Carlo Ancelotti faces the challenge of unifying a squad with high expectations, though their ability to dominate on any given day remains a key factor.

Germany’s Return to Form

Nico Hulkenberg, a German fan, supports a team lacking the 2014 World Cup-winning core but featuring players like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala. Germany’s group stage could see a clash with France, with the team aiming to avoid early exits after failing to progress in recent tournaments.

Netherlands’ Search for First Title

The Netherlands, a footballing powerhouse without a World Cup title, includes players like Virgil van Dijk and Memphis Depay. Max Verstappen’s support highlights the team’s ambition to end its title drought. Their Group A opponents include Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia, with the squad’s attacking depth offering promise.

Mexico’s Home Crowd Advantage

Sergio Pérez supports Mexico, which hosts the tournament for the first time. The team, featuring Guillermo Ochoa and 17-year-old Gilberto Mora, aims to surpass its previous home World Cup quarterfinal runs. The pressure of playing in front of passionate fans could influence their performance.

Canada’s Historic Opportunity

Lance Stroll backs Canada, making its World Cup debut. The team includes Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies and Juventus’ Jonathan David, aiming to avoid the 1986 and 2022 group-stage failures. Their group includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, and Switzerland, with the potential to create history.

Australia’s Dark Horse Status

Oscar Piastri supports Australia, which reached the 2022 last 16. The team, featuring Nestroy Irankunda, faces a tough Group D but has shown resilience. Their ability to challenge stronger teams could make them a surprise contender.

New Zealand’s Underdog Aspirations

Liam Lawson supports New Zealand, making its third World Cup appearance. The team, ranked lowest among qualifiers, aims to upset Belgium, Egypt, and Iran. Their journey from part-time players to professionals highlights the tournament’s unpredictability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which F1 drivers support Spain?

Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso.

How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?

48 national teams.

Which nation has the most F1 drivers backing it?

England, with five drivers.

What impact could the host nations’ home advantage have on their performances?