Full List: Countries That Have Won Back-to-Back World Cups

Only two countries have successfully defended the FIFA World Cup title in the tournament’s nearly century-long history: Italy in 1934 and 1938, and Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Argentina now stands one win away from joining this exclusive club.​

Italy became the first repeat champions, winning on home soil in 1934 before retaining the trophy in France in 1938. Brazil became the second, and last, nation to achieve the feat, with a 17-year-old Pelé starring in the 1958 victory before Garrincha inspired the team to retain the title in 1962 despite Pelé’s injury.

Argentina, the defending champions, will face Spain in Sunday’s final with a chance to become the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups.

Key Points:

Italy (1934 & 1938): First repeat champions, defeated Czechoslovakia and Hungary in finals.
Brazil (1958 & 1962): Second and last repeat champions, led by Pelé and Garrincha.
Argentina (2022 & 2026): One win away from joining Italy and Brazil in exclusive club.
Italy’s bid for a third straight title was ended by World War II cancellation.
Brazil’s attempt for a third consecutive title ended with a group-stage exit in 1966.

Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain, as Messi’s side aims to become only the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups.