Novak Djokovic Predicts Portugal Will Defeat Mexico in 2026 World Cup Final

Novak Djokovic may be more accustomed to Grand Slam titles than penalty shootouts, but even the tennis great is ready to weigh in on football’s biggest stage. At the end of the Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi, Djokovic didn’t hesitate to pick a World Cup champion.

Key Points:

• Djokovic made his World Cup forecast during the Abu Dhabi GP interview

• He backed Portugal to lift the trophy after beating Mexico in the final

• Portugal has already booked its spot and will tackle Colombia, Uzbekistan and the intercontinental playoff winner in Group K

• Mexico enjoys home advantage as a co-host and arrives fresh off CONCACAF successes

Djokovic’s High-Stakes Call in Abu Dhabi

During the final pit stop buzz at the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Djokovic surprised viewers by seamlessly switching from rallies to roars. In a chat with content creator Mohammed Adnan, he delivered a concise verdict on the 2026 tournament: “Portugal. And they will beat Mexico in the final.” This declaration—made just after the World Cup draw—reflects Djokovic’s growing football passion. Beyond the baseline, he co-owns Le Mans FC in France and frequently attends matches across Europe. His confident forecast has already sparked debate among fans and pundits.

Portugal’s Formidable Credentials

Portugal secured qualification with authority, topping UEFA’s Group F and thumping Armenia 9-1 on November 16, 2025. Under coach Roberto Martínez, the seleção went unbeaten, tallying 13 points from 6 matches with a +13 goal difference. Now drawn in Group K, Portugal will face:

• The intercontinental playoff victor (RD Congo, Jamaica or New Caledonia) on June 17 in Houston

• Uzbekistan on June 23 in Houston

• Colombia on June 28 in Miami

The squad revolves around veteran Cristiano Ronaldo, who, at 41, eyes a sixth World Cup appearance. Combined with emerging talents and tactical discipline, Portugal enters the summer tournament as one of the FIFA’s top 10 sides.

Mexico’s Home Turf Edge

As one of the three hosts alongside the United States and Canada, Mexico auto-qualified and sidestepped the CONCACAF qualifiers. Recent triumphs in the 2025 Gold Cup and the Nations League under coach Javier Aguirre have bolstered national pride. Historic bests on home soil reached the quarterfinals in 1970 and 1986, but a final remains elusive. Match venues in Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey promise fervent crowds ready to spur Los Aztecas.

From Lisbon Headlines to Mexico City Chatter

Portuguese outlets like RTP, Flashscore.pt and CNN Portugal covered Djokovic’s prognosis with curiosity rather than skepticism, noting that neither Portugal nor Mexico has ever contested a World Cup final. In contrast, Mexican press platforms—TUDN, Milenio and Aristegui Noticias—described the pick as audacious, praising Djokovic’s global standing while expressing doubt over their squad’s ability to match Europe’s heavyweights.

Assessing the Odds: Rankings, Form and Fan Power

According to the November 2025 FIFA rankings, Portugal sits at 6, while Mexico holds 15. Portugal’s flawless qualifiers and deep bench suggest real momentum, but factors remain fluid:

Draw dynamics: A tough knockout timeline could pit Portugal against established giants early.Home atmosphere: Mexico’s fans will pack arenas, potentially swinging tight matches.Player fitness: Injuries or late surges from underdog nations can reshape the bracket.

Ultimately, Djokovic’s vision is a blend of bold flair and respect for Portugal’s ascent. Whether his prediction becomes reality, the World Cup will deliver drama on both continents.

Looking Ahead: As summer 2026 approaches, fans in Lisbon and Mexico City alike will replay Djokovic’s words in stadium chants and sports bars. Even if his pick remains a daring shot in the dark, it reminds us that, across sports and borders, hope is the true universal language.