Spain Back on Top

FIFA has updated its world ranking, and Spain are back at the top after 11 years. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, La Roja claimed the No. 1 spot thanks to a dominant start to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, including emphatic wins over Bulgaria and Turkey that underlined their strong form.

It’s no small detail: Spain had not held the top position since June 2014, still riding the glory of their Euro 2012 and 2010 World Cup triumphs. Now, with 1875.37 points, the Spanish national team sit once again on the throne of world football.

Argentina Slip, France Rise

World champions Argentina lost their grip on the top spot after falling to Ecuador in South American qualifying. Lionel Scaloni’s team not only dropped points but also slipped to third place with 1870.32 points, overtaken by France, who climbed to second with 1870.92 after victories over Ukraine and Iceland.

La Albiceleste already have their ticket secured for the World Cup, but their slide in the rankings highlights how tight the battle is at the top. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, remain the biggest European rival to Scaloni’s side—and to Spain.

Portugal Climb, Brazil Fall

The top five is rounded out by England, who stay in fourth, and Portugal, who rose to fifth on the back of strong results and their status as reigning Nations League champions. Their rise pushed Brazil down to sixth with 1761.6 points, a clear sign of their fading dominance.

Behind them come the Netherlands, Belgium, and Italy. The biggest loser was Germany, who dropped to 12th, behind Croatia and even Morocco, who remain the top African side in 11th place.

The Return of a Powerhouse

Spain’s return to the No. 1 FIFA ranking is more than symbolic: it reflects the consolidation of a project aiming to reclaim the summit at the next World Cup. With young talents and a renewed style, La Roja have put the football world on notice: eleven years later, Spain are back in command.