Predict the World Cup 2026, win $ 10,000

Ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, ESPN has introduced two free-to-play prediction games, giving football fans worldwide a chance to test their knowledge and compete for cash prizes.

The newly launched games — the Group Stage Challenge and the Knockout Bracket Challenge — allow participants to forecast the outcome of the tournament from the group stage through to the final.

In the Group Stage Challenge, users predict the final standings of all 12 groups by ranking teams from first to fourth. Players must also select the eight best third-placed teams they believe will advance to the knockout rounds alongside the 24 automatic qualifiers. Points are awarded for correct predictions, with bonus points available for accurately identifying advancing third-placed teams and achieving a “Perfect Group” prediction.

Participants can edit their selections until the tournament officially begins on June 11.

Following the completion of the group stage on June 27, attention shifts to the Knockout Bracket Challenge. Fans can create up to 25 different tournament brackets and predict the winners of each knockout-round match through to the World Cup final. Brackets must be finalized before the first Round of 32 match kicks off on June 28.

ESPN is also encouraging fans to create private groups with friends and family or join public competitions to compare predictions throughout the tournament.

The initiative adds an extra layer of excitement to what is expected to be one of the most competitive FIFA World Cups in history, with fans eagerly waiting to see whether favorites such as England, Argentina, France, and Spain can live up to expectations on football's biggest stage.

Link:

- Play ESPN's Group Stage Challenge
- Play ESPN's Knockout Bracket Challenge