FIFA World Cup: Where the last 10 tournaments were held, and who won

The FIFA World Cup has travelled across continents, from the football-crazy streets of Brazil to the futuristic stadiums of Qatar. Here’s a look at the last 10 men’s FIFA World Cups, where they happened and which team lifted football’s biggest trophy.

Qatar (2022) 

Qatar hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first country in the Middle East to stage football's biggest tournament. It was also the first World Cup held during November and December instead of the usual mid-year schedule. The event was played across multiple cities including Doha, Al Khor and Lusail. The tournament produced one of the most dramatic finals in World Cup history, as Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout, giving Lionel Messi his first World Cup title.

Russia (2018) 

Russia hosted the tournament across 11 cities, including Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Sochi. The 2018 World Cup became known for dramatic matches and several unexpected results. Croatia made an impressive run to its first-ever World Cup final, while France showcased a young and talented squad. France defeated Croatia 4–2 in the final and secured its second FIFA World Cup title, twenty years after winning its first trophy in 1998.

Brazil (2014) 

Brazil hosted the World Cup for the second time, with matches played in cities including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília. The tournament generated huge excitement as Brazil competed on home soil. One of the biggest moments came in the semifinal, where Germany defeated Brazil 7–1. Germany later faced Argentina in the final and won through Mario Götze's extra-time goal, securing its fourth World Cup title.

South Africa (2010)

South Africa became the first African country to host the FIFA World Cup. Matches were held across cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Spain entered the tournament with its possession-based style of football and reached the final against the Netherlands. Andrés Iniesta scored the decisive extra-time goal as Spain won 1–0 and lifted its first FIFA World Cup trophy.

Germany (2006) 

Germany hosted the World Cup across major cities such as Berlin, Munich and Dortmund. The competition delivered memorable matches and strong fan support throughout the tournament. Italy reached the final against France in a match remembered for Zinedine Zidane's red card after a headbutt incident. Italy eventually won through a penalty shootout and claimed its fourth FIFA World Cup title.

Japan and South Korea (2002) 

The 2002 edition became the first FIFA World Cup hosted by two countries and the first held in Asia. Matches took place across several cities in Japan and South Korea. The tournament featured major surprises, including South Korea reaching the semifinals. Brazil produced a dominant campaign and defeated Germany in the final, with Ronaldo scoring twice to help Brazil win its record fifth World Cup title.

France (1998) 

France hosted the first FIFA World Cup featuring 32 teams, expanding the tournament format. Matches were played in cities including Paris, Marseille and Lyon. The host nation enjoyed a memorable run and reached the final against Brazil. Zinedine Zidane scored two goals in the final as France won 3–0 and secured its first FIFA World Cup title.

United States (1994) 

The United States hosted the tournament across cities including Los Angeles, Chicago and Dallas. The World Cup recorded strong attendance figures and became an important moment for football's growth in the country. Brazil and Italy played out a goalless final before the title was decided by penalties. Brazil won the shootout and lifted its fourth FIFA World Cup trophy.

Italy (1990) 

Italy hosted the tournament across several cities including Rome, Milan and Naples. The competition produced several memorable performances, with Salvatore Schillaci finishing as the top scorer. West Germany reached the final and faced defending champions Argentina. A penalty goal secured a 1–0 win for West Germany, giving the team its third FIFA World Cup title.

Mexico (1986) 

Mexico became the first country to host the FIFA World Cup twice after stepping in following Colombia's withdrawal. Matches took place across cities including Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. The tournament is remembered for Diego Maradona's performances, particularly against England in the quarterfinals. Argentina reached the final and defeated West Germany 3–2 to secure its second FIFA World Cup title.

First Published on May 25, 2026, 16:39:34 IST