Joel Embiid makes bold claim about 2026 World Cup winner

Joel Embiid may be one of basketball’s most dominant figures, but the Philadelphia 76ers star has also carved out a reputation as an avid soccer fan. 

The former NBA MVP regularly follows Europe’s biggest matches and keeps a close eye on international tournaments, watching with the enthusiasm of a lifelong supporter.

With the next World Cup on the horizon, Embiid has made his feelings clear about who could succeed on the biggest stage, and who won’t.

“France has had the best team, you know? Spain, I think Spain’s got a chance. England is going to choke again. That happens every single time,” Embiid told reporters, via Sky Sports. “Technically, they’ve got the best team. You know, obviously I’m a big football fan, I watch every single game. As far as talent on paper, it looks good.”

Can England go one step further in 2026?

The 2026 World Cup will be the first expanded edition of the tournament, featuring 48 teams and staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico. For England, it represents another chance to turn potential into silverware after a string of near misses.

Thomas Tuchel’s squad has often been described as one of the most talented in the nation’s history, filled with Premier League stars and marquee names from across Europe. On paper, England’s chances are as strong as ever.

Yet history suggests talent alone may not be enough. England fell to France in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup, lost agonizingly on penalties to Italy in the Euro 2020 final and were beaten by Spain in the Euro 2024 final. 

For many critics, these results only reinforce a long-running perception: When the pressure is highest, England too often fall short.

It is a narrative Embiid was quick to underline when asked about the 2026 tournament. While his comments may not sit comfortably with England supporters, they reflect a skepticism shared by many within the country. 

France and Spain to capitalize on world-class generation (again)?

While bookmakers continue to list England among the favorites, France and Spain do bring greater pedigree to the table.

France remain loaded with world-class talent, having reached consecutive World Cup finals in 2018 and 2022. Spain, meanwhile, are fresh from winning Euro 2024 and boast a new generation of technically gifted players already evoking the possession-heavy dominance that made them champions a decade ago.

Whether Embiid’s prediction proves accurate will only be revealed in 2026. For now, his words strike at the heart of one of soccer's most enduring debates of whether England can finally deliver on their promise, or will the “choke” tag linger for another generation.