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Deutsche Bank

June 12, 2026

Money Can't Buy You The World Cup

Macro ThematicOtherOther

Deutsche Bank explores the lack of correlation between a nation's GDP or population and its performance in the FIFA World Cup. Success is instead linked to a small, entrenched group of historical winners with deep-seated sporting infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

  • 1.Macroeconomic factors like GDP and population size are not effective predictors of FIFA World Cup success.
  • 2.Historical dominance in the World Cup is driven by a small, exclusive club of nations with long-standing footballing infrastructure and culture.

Table of Contents

  • Important Disclosures
  • Analyst Certification

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