This issue’s cover article is dedicated to Pelé — the GOAT; the only player ever to win this tournament three times, and a man who, in his own day, did very nearly everything we now treat as the hallmark of a complete footballer. To read his World Cup story, turn to page 22.

Every World Cup is full of bittersweet moments for certain players — because it proves to be the last tournament they will ever contest. And if those same players have never once lifted the trophy, bidding the competition farewell turns more bitter still. In ‘The Last Dance’, we’ve gathered the players appearing at their final World Cup who have never been crowned world champions.

For all the extraordinary legends it has produced down the years, Italy has of late forgotten its old, dominant days. If you’d like to recall the Azzurri’s triumphs — and learn about the failures that have kept them out of the last three World Cups — read our article ‘Italy World Cup 2026’.