NEW DELHI: For years, football fans have tried all sorts of ways to predict World Cup winners. Some trusted expert opinions, others believed in superstitions, and many still remember Paul the Octopus, who became famous for correctly predicting match results during the 2010 World Cup.Now, a group of statisticians has used artificial intelligence to make its prediction for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A research team led by statistics professor Achim Zeileis created a machine-learning model and simulated the entire tournament 100,000 times to see which team had the best chance of lifting the trophy.According to the study, reported by The Independent, Spain have emerged as the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup. The AI model gives them a 14.5 per cent chance of becoming champions.England and France are tied for second place with a 12.4 per cent chance each, while Germany are close behind at 11.2 per cent. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal have been given an 8.9 per cent chance of winning the title, while Lionel Messi’s Argentina stand at 8.2 per cent.How did the AI make the prediction?The researchers looked at a wide range of information before making their forecast.They studied how teams have performed in recent years. Apart from this they considered betting market odds and assessed the quality of players. And all these information was then fed into a machine-learning system.The model then calculated the chances of different results in every match. It estimated not only which team was more likely to win but also how many goals each side could score.Using these probabilities, the researchers simulated every game of the tournament, including extra time and penalty shootouts, while following FIFA’s official rules.Why is there no clear favourite?The 2026 World Cup will be the biggest in history, featuring 48 teams instead of 32.With more teams and an extra knockout round, there is greater scope for surprises. A single upset can completely change the course of a tournament, which is why the leading contenders are separated by only a few percentage points.What are the chances of the United States?The United States, one of the tournament hosts, have been given a strong 78 per cent chance of progressing from the group stage and reaching the Round of 32.However, once the knockout rounds begin, the challenge becomes much tougher. According to the simulations, the United States have only a one per cent chance of winning the World Cup on home soil.The researchers were quick to point out that football does not always follow the numbers. The predictions are based on probabilities, not certainties. Upsets and surprises are part of what makes the World Cup special.Still, if the AI model is right, Spain currently have the best chance of lifting football’s biggest prize in 2026.