The 2026 FIFA World Cup has finally arrived, sparking the inevitable question – how do past tournaments measure up in football history?

Each World Cup, regardless of whether it was celebrated or criticised, has left deep memories etched into the hearts of fans. Some were captivating spectacles; others were forgettable affairs, yet all contributed to the sport’s grand narrative.

We take a detailed look back at every World Cup since 1990, ranking them from the least impressive to the most iconic.

Let’s be honest – some editions were rather dull, weren’t they?

The 2010 edition in South Africa brought us the unmistakable drone of vuvuzelas, Luis Suarez’s infamous handball that shattered many hearts – especially Asamoah Gyan’s – and England’s struggles. New Zealand exited without losing a game, while Mark van Bommel and Nigel de Jong turned the final into a battle. Yet, Siphiwe Tshabalala’s thunderous strike in the opening match and South Africa’s joyous celebration dance remain among the tournament’s most unforgettable moments.

The 2002 World Cup was filled with surprises and controversy. Defending champions France crashed out in the group stage without scoring a single goal. The USA stunned Portugal, and Roy Keane’s fiery exit from the Republic of Ireland camp was as dramatic as Ireland’s famous draw against Germany. South Korea and Turkey emerged as shock semi-finalists, though the hosts’ victories over Spain and Italy were marred by dubious refereeing and whispers of interference. Still, the trio of Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho led Brazil to their fifth title, while David Beckham earned redemption against Argentina.

The 1994 World Cup in the USA is often remembered for Diana Ross’s missed penalty in the opening ceremony and Roberto Baggio’s heartbreaking miss in the final that handed Brazil the trophy. Diego Maradona’s brief, chaotic appearance, Bebeto’s cradle celebration, and Ireland’s upset win over Italy also stood out – though England’s absence took some shine off the event.

The 2018 tournament in Russia turned out to be more entertaining than expected. It featured numerous upsets, plenty of goals, and an England side that was actually likeable. Defending champions Germany were eliminated early, and only France among the traditional giants reached the semi-finals. The knockout rounds were full of drama, but perhaps lacked one truly iconic team or moment. It felt as though France triumphed because the other heavyweights faltered.

Italia 90 holds a special nostalgic charm, especially for English fans. As the last World Cup before the Premier League era, it is remembered as much for its cultural impact as for the football itself – ‘World in Motion’, ‘Nessun Dorma’, stylish kits, Roger Milla’s dance, and Paul Gascoigne’s tears. Yet, England’s performances before the semi-final were unconvincing, and the tournament as a whole was short on quality football. Iconic? Absolutely. The greatest ever? Not quite.

Brazil 2014 was a strong, enjoyable tournament overall. The group stages were electric, loaded with goals and high-profile exits for England, Italy and Portugal. The knockout rounds slowed a bit, but the astonishing 1-7 defeat of Brazil by Germany remains one of the most shocking results in football history.

Qatar 2022 exceeded expectations on the pitch. From group-stage shocks – including early exits for Belgium, Germany and Uruguay – to Morocco’s historic run as the first African semi-finalists, it was full of drama. Lionel Messi, under coach Lionel Scaloni, guided Argentina to glory after an early loss to Saudi Arabia, culminating in an epic final against France. Despite the controversies surrounding the hosts, the football itself delivered unforgettable moments.

The 2006 World Cup in Germany was surrounded by drama from start to finish. Italy entered amid the Calciopoli scandal and left as champions, while Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt in the final became one of the most infamous moments in sports history. In between, fans were treated to Argentina’s exquisite 24-pass goal, Joe Cole’s stunning strike against Sweden, Cristiano Ronaldo’s wink, and Italy’s epic semi-final victory over Germany. That game alone was worth the price of admission.

France 1998 had nearly everything a World Cup could offer. Brazil’s Nike airport advert captured the global imagination; Ronaldo and Michael Owen emerged as global stars; and the group stage saw shock wins for Nigeria, Iran and Romania. Although the final was overshadowed by Ronaldo’s mysterious illness, France’s triumph on home soil stood as a powerful statement for a diverse, multicultural team. It was a tournament that embodied football’s universal appeal.