With the FIFA World Cup now underway across the United States, Canada and Mexico, football fever is once again gripping Guyana as fans prepare for a month of debates, packed sports bars, and unwavering support for the stars and teams they have followed for years.
The 2026 tournament is historic. It is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and 104 matches, making it the largest edition in FIFA history. It is also the first World Cup to be hosted by three countries, with the United States, Canada and Mexico sharing hosting duties. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19.
For many Guyanese supporters, however, the focus is not on the expanded format but on one simple question; who will lift football’s most coveted trophy on July 19?
Defending champions Argentina enter the tournament among the favourites after a strong qualification campaign and a run of consistency that has seen them remain among the world’s elite sides. Led by Lionel Messi and guided by coach Lionel Scaloni, the South Americans are seeking to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend a World Cup title.
France are also expected to be major contenders. The 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up possess one of the deepest squads in international football and are led by superstar forward Kylian Mbappé. Spain have emerged among the leading contenders as well, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal spearheading one of the tournament’s most exciting young squads.
Brazil, despite some inconsistency in recent years, remain among football’s traditional powerhouses. The five-time world champions continue to command respect on the international stage and will look to stars such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and veteran Neymar as they chase a record-extending sixth title.
In Guyana, support for Brazil remains as strong as ever.
For decades, many Guyanese have gravitated towards the South American giants because of the geographical and cultural ties Guyana shares with the continent. The iconic yellow jersey continues to be one of the most visible football shirts seen around Georgetown whenever a major tournament comes around.
However, Argentina’s triumph in Qatar four years ago significantly shifted the landscape. Messi’s success attracted a new generation of supporters, creating what many local football followers describe as one of the most divided World Cup fan bases in recent memory, with Brazil and Argentina expected to dominate conversations throughout the tournament.
Football loyalties in Guyana have also evolved over the years.
Many younger supporters now follow national teams because of the club footballers they admire. Fans who watch Mbappé every week often find themselves supporting France. Vinícius Júnior’s exploits at club level have strengthened Brazil’s appeal among younger followers, while Cristiano Ronaldo continues to command a loyal following despite entering the twilight of his remarkable career.
Then there is Argentina.
The bond between Lionel Messi and football fans in Guyana has only strengthened since Argentina’s triumph in Qatar. Across the capital, Messi jerseys remain among the most popular football shirts, and many supporters believe the legendary forward still has one more magical run left in him.
Jason, a longtime FC Barcelona supporter, believes Argentina have what it takes to defend their title.
“Messi has done it before and I think this team knows how to win tournaments. People say they are older now, but they still have quality all over the field. I wouldn’t bet against them.”
Raul, another Barcelona fan, feels the emotional motivation behind Messi’s likely final World Cup could be a major factor.
“This is probably his last World Cup and I think the players will rally around him. Argentina have the experience and they know what it takes to win.”
Donovan shares that view.
“We saw what happened in Qatar. Everybody wanted Messi to get that trophy. I think there is still that belief in the squad and if they get momentum, they can go very far.”
Not everyone in Georgetown agrees.
Among Guyana’s sizeable Real Madrid fan base, loyalty remains firmly with Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal.
Gregory admits Portugal may not be among the tournament favourites but says his support will never waver.
“If Ronaldo is there, I’m supporting Portugal. That’s simple. People have been writing him off for years and he keeps proving them wrong.”
Othneil echoed the sentiment.
“I don’t care what the odds say. If Cristiano gets one chance, he can change a game. Until he retires, I’m backing Portugal.”
Others believe football is entering a new era.
Many fans see Spain and teenage star Lamine Yamal as the team most likely to challenge for the title. The young winger has become one of the sport’s biggest attractions and is widely viewed as a player capable of defining the next generation of football.
For supporters across Guyana, this World Cup also carries extra emotional significance because it is widely expected to represent the final World Cup appearance for Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, three players who have collectively defined an era spanning nearly two decades.
Their performances have inspired countless young footballers, fuelled endless debates and helped grow the sport’s popularity around the world, including in Guyana. Whether one supports Argentina, Portugal or Brazil, many fans will be watching knowing this may be the last World Cup chapter for three of the game’s most recognisable stars.
Away from the football itself, sports bars and entertainment venues across Georgetown are expected to benefit from increased patronage throughout the tournament.
Unlike previous World Cups that featured difficult viewing hours, this year’s North American hosting arrangement places most matches in highly convenient time slots for Guyanese fans. Games are scheduled predominantly for midday, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 6:00 pm and 9:00 or 10:00 pm local time, creating ideal opportunities for lunch-hour viewing, after-work gatherings and late-night football sessions.
For many supporters, the World Cup will become a daily social event. Friends, families and co-workers are expected to gather after work to cheer on their favourite players and teams, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the capital over the next month.
The tournament has not been without controversy.
One of the major issues attracting international attention involved Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa and FIFA accreditation. The decision prevented him from officiating at the World Cup and sparked international debate over immigration policies, security vetting and tournament access. FIFA subsequently confirmed that Artan would miss the competition.
Additional concerns have also been raised regarding visa and travel issues affecting some teams, officials and support personnel participating in the tournament.
Despite those distractions, football remains firmly at the centre of attention.
And as televisions light up homes, rum shops and sports bars across Georgetown, one thing is certain; for the next month, the world’s biggest sporting event will dominate conversations throughout Guyana as supporters rally behind their favourite teams, heroes and footballing dreams.
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