Marco Van Basten Will Not Support Netherlands at 2026 World Cup, Backs Brazil Instead

Marco Van Basten, one of the most celebrated figures in Dutch and world football, has made a surprising announcement regarding his support for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a recent interview with Sportmediaset, Van Basten revealed that he will not be backing his home nation, the Netherlands, during the tournament. Instead, he plans to support Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti.

Van Basten, aged 61, is widely respected for his illustrious career, which includes winning three Ballon d'Or awards and two UEFA Champions League titles with AC Milan. His views carry significant weight in football circles, making his decision notable. The Netherlands, a nation with a rich footballing history, will be competing in the World Cup as usual, but Van Basten's lack of faith in the current squad signals concerns about their prospects.

The impact of Van Basten's stance extends beyond personal preference. His public endorsement of Brazil highlights a shift in his perception of international football powerhouses ahead of the tournament. It may also reflect broader questions about the development and competitiveness of Dutch football on the world stage. For fans and analysts, this could spark debate about the Netherlands' preparation and potential performance in 2026.

In the same interview, Van Basten expressed strong criticism of the current state of Italian football, particularly regarding the influence of foreign ownership. He described foreign proprietors as detrimental to the sport in Italy, stating that many lack connection to the clubs' histories or genuine interest in their success. Van Basten called for a return to Italian stewardship to help restore Serie A's status among Europe's elite leagues.

Van Basten also voiced disappointment about AC Milan, his former club, which he feels is no longer the dominant force it once was. He noted that while he continues to follow Milan closely, the club's current struggles contrast with the success of their local rivals, Inter Milan, who currently lead in Italy. This situation adds to his concerns about the direction of Italian football overall.

Looking ahead, the 2026 World Cup will provide a stage for the Netherlands to prove their quality despite Van Basten's reservations. Meanwhile, Brazil, under Ancelotti's management, will aim to justify the veteran's support. In Serie A, the debate over ownership and club performance is likely to continue, with Milan's recovery and Inter's dominance remaining key storylines. Van Basten's comments may influence discussions on football governance and club identity in Italy as the new season approaches.