PEKANBARU – The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is beginning to spread across various regions, including Riau Province. Discussions about favourite teams and championship predictions have started to heat up as the world’s biggest football tournament draws closer.

The Head of the Riau Manpower and Transmigration Office (Disnakertrans), Roni Rahmat, has publicly expressed his support for the England national team to claim the world title at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to Roni, the current Three Lions squad boasts a complete lineup filled with talented young players who are performing at their peak.

“I’m backing England. My prediction is that the final will feature England against France,” said Roni Rahmat when asked about his views on the 2026 World Cup on Sunday (31 May 2026).

Beyond naming England as his top pick for the title, Roni also believes that young midfielder Jude Bellingham will be one of the standout players throughout the tournament.

He noted that the England star possesses the technical ability, mentality, and leadership qualities needed to shine on the world stage.

“Bellingham will be the star. He has incredible quality and can be the difference-maker for England,” he stated.

Roni’s prediction aligns with the opinions of many football analysts who consider England among the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup. In addition to their strong squad depth, England are bolstered by a generation of gifted young players who already have experience in top-tier European competitions.

In recent years, England have also demonstrated consistency in major tournaments. They reached the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and continue to be regarded as one of the teams to watch in international football.

Meanwhile, France — whom Roni expects to meet England in the final — remain a powerhouse in world football. Les Bleus possess a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents, keeping them among the favourites in every major competition.

The 2026 World Cup is expected to be one of the most exciting editions in history. For the first time ever, the tournament will feature 48 participating nations, an increase from previous editions.

In addition to the heightened competition, the event is also expected to revive the popular tradition of public viewing sessions, which attract football fans from all walks of life.

These gatherings not only serve as entertainment for football enthusiasts but also help stimulate the local economy through small businesses, culinary ventures, and micro-enterprises.