The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, with the United States set to host the tournament in what promises to be a historic summer.
Excitement is building ahead of the competition, which will coincide with the country’s 250th anniversary.
But one former USMNT star already knows exactly who he does not want to see lift the trophy.
Alexi Lalas has made it clear that England winning on American soil is a scenario he wants to avoid at all costs.
Alexi Lalas does not want England to win 2026 World Cup
Lalas did not hold back when asked about his feelings towards England’s chances.
“Here’s the deal when it comes to England: anybody but England this summer. I don’t care who wins the World Cup this summer, but it cannot be England,” he said.
He pointed to the significance of the tournament being hosted in the United States as a key reason.
“Can you imagine England, who haven’t won a World Cup since the 1960s, if they were to come to our shores, by the way, on our 250th birthday, and win the World Cup?”
Lalas also joked about the potential reaction from England supporters if they were to end their long wait for success.
“If you think the English are insufferable now, can you imagine if they won the World Cup this summer?”
His comments underline the mixture of rivalry and humour that often surrounds major international tournaments.
England have real chance to win World Cup as Alexi Lalas nightmare looms
While Lalas’ comments may be tongue-in-cheek, England head into the tournament as genuine contenders.
They are currently viewed as second favourites behind Spain, underlining the strength of their squad.
Thomas Tuchel is in charge, bringing elite-level experience, while the team is packed with world-class talent.
Players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Reece James give England quality across the pitch.
Although they have not won a World Cup since 1966, England have performed well in recent tournaments and continue to challenge at the highest level.
With that in mind, Lalas’ nightmare scenario is far from unrealistic.
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