Predictions for 2026 World Cup: Animals, models and stars weigh in

The 2010 World Cup captured the world's imagination with Paul the Octopus, who correctly predicted 12 out of 14 matches, earning fame as an animal oracle. Carrying forward Paul's popular legacy, animals at the Guadalajara Zoo in Mexico have now entered the prediction game for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, football analysts and star players are also offering their forecasts.

Animal predictions
Guadalajara Zoo veterinarian Ivan Reionso said the zoo's animals will predict results of various World Cup matches. For each match, two team options are placed before each animal, and their choice determines the prediction.

In the first round of predictions:
Elephants chose Mexico over South Africa

Gorillas predicted Uruguay to beat Spain

Pumas favoured South Korea against Czech Republic

Giraffes predicted victory for the Republic of Congo

This tradition of animal predictions gained popularity when Paul the Octopus made waves in 2010. Now, elephants, gorillas, pumas and giraffes at Guadalajara Zoo are carrying that legacy forward.

Mathematical model predictions
German economist and investment analyst Joachim Clement has developed a mathematical model that predicts the Netherlands could win the 2026 World Cup. The surprise is that favourites such as Argentina, Brazil, Spain and France are not projected as champions.

Clement accurately predicted the champions of the 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups using his model, sparking fresh discussions in the football world with his latest forecast.

Star player predictions
Spanish midfielder Gavi, speaking on a show hosted by popular Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos, said he believes Spain will win the 2026 World Cup, with Portugal as runners-up. He picked Ecuador as a surprise package, noting that the team has several talented players capable of causing major upsets.

For individual awards, Gavi backed his national and club teammate Lamine Yamal to win the Best Player of the Tournament award. He picked Mikel Oyarzabal as the top scorer, named Joao Felix as the rising star, and chose Neymar as the most experienced and influential player.

With the World Cup still some time away, the diverse predictions from animals, mathematical models and football stars are already building anticipation among fans worldwide.

Sources: Al Jazeera, ESPN