David Beckham backs Japan as World Cup dark horse, relives England glory ahead of 2026 showpiece
London, June 6
Legendary English footballer David Beckham has tipped Japan as a potential surprise package at the 2026 FIFA World Cup while admitting he is dreaming of seeing England end their six-decade wait for global glory.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, Beckham reflected on his own World Cup experiences and shared his predictions for the upcoming edition.
"As far as I can remember back as a young kid, I've always been excited about World Cups," Beckham said, as per ABC News, recalling memories of supporting England from his childhood home in East London.
The former midfielder, who represented England at the 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups, said watching his heroes inspired his love for the tournament, particularly former England captain Bryan Robson.
Among his own World Cup highlights, Beckham pointed to a memorable moment from France 1998.
"Scoring my first goal for England on my mum's birthday," he said, referring to his stunning free-kick against Colombia that helped England secure a place in the knockout stages.
The 51-year-old added that leading his country on football's biggest stage remains his most cherished memory.
"Also, I'd have to say -- walking out as a captain of your country in a World Cup, you know, that's my biggest and best memory," he told ABC News. "The responsibility is incredible. I was just proud to be in that position."
Looking ahead to the 2026 tournament, Beckham unsurprisingly backed England as his preferred winner.
"I'm always going to say England -- especially [because] it's 60 years now since obviously we last won the World Cup, so it's about time that we win [again]," he said.
However, Beckham warned that every World Cup produces unexpected contenders and identified Japan as a team capable of making a deep run.
"It's never easy," he said. "There's always, you know, a surprise in a World Cup with either a player or a country that emerges. I think the Japanese team have got a really strong team -- they could be kind of a secret."
He also highlighted traditional powerhouses France, Spain, Argentina and Brazil among the leading contenders for the title.
Since retiring in 2013 after a distinguished 21-year playing career, Beckham has remained heavily involved in football as co-owner of Major League Soccer club Inter Miami CF. He expects to watch much of the World Cup action from Florida, one of the tournament's host regions.
Away from football, Beckham revealed that gardening has become his favourite pastime.
"It's my happy place. I can't lie," Beckham said. "Every weekend I'm in the countryside with obviously all of my vegetables and my chickens."
Reflecting on the change in lifestyle, he added, "I was saying to my friend the other day, 'I used to be quite cool, you know? Like riding motorbikes in LA with my friends, camping in forests -- and now I'm a gardener. It's a different kind of cool."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Beckham being a gardener now is the most wholesome thing I've read all day! From free-kick hero to chicken farmer - life comes full circle. As for Japan being a dark horse, they're no secret to anyone who watched them dismantle Germany and Spain in 2022. Arigato, Beckham-san! 🏀
England hasn't won in 60 years? That stat always amazes me for a country that gave football to the world. Meanwhile, we in India can only dream of even qualifying 😅 But Beckham's point about surprises is spot on - that's what makes the World Cup special. Japan could cause some upsets!
Respect for Beckham acknowledging Japan while everyone talks about the usual suspects. But let's be honest - even if England has talent like Bellingham, their defense always finds a way to let them down. Three Lions fans, get ready for another heartbreak! 🦁
Beckham talking about his free-kick against Columbia - that goal felt magical even watching from India as a kid. And now he's gardening? I went from dreaming of football glory to watering my tulsi plant every morning. Relatable king! 👑
While Beckham tipping Japan is nice, I wish he'd acknowledged other Asian teams too. South Korea reached semis in 2002, Australia is improving. Japan is strong but not the only Asian hope. Still, it shows Asian football is getting more respect, which is good for the global game. More power to them!
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