FIFA World Rankings 2026: India Climbs to 136th, France Reclaims No.1 Spot

The latest rankings released by FIFA on April 1, 2026, bring significant movement both globally and for India. The Indian men’s football team has shown progress, while the top three positions have witnessed a major reshuffle.

India Moves Up to 136th Position

India climbed five places to reach 136th in the latest rankings. This improvement comes after a crucial victory against Hong Kong national football team in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers held in Kochi. The win has boosted India’s points and momentum in international football.

France Returns to World No.1

France national football team has reclaimed the top position, overtaking both Spain national football team and Argentina national football team. This marks France’s first return to the No.1 spot since September 2018.

Top 3 Rankings See Tight Competition

Spain has slipped to second place, while Argentina now stands third. The points gap among these three teams remains extremely narrow, indicating intense competition at the top level.

Changes in the Global Top 10

Portugal national football team climbed to fifth position, pushing Brazil national football team down to sixth.

The rest of the top 10 includes:

• England national football team (4th)
• Netherlands national football team (7th)
• Morocco national football team (8th)
• Belgium national football team (9th)
• Germany national football team (10th)

Asia Rankings: Japan Leads the Pack

In Asia, Japan national football team continues to dominate at 18th place, followed by:

• Iran national football team (21st)
• South Korea national football team (25th)

Meanwhile, Vietnam national football team made a notable leap, entering the top 100 at 99th after climbing nine positions.

India’s Position in Global Context

Despite the improvement, India remains outside the top 100, highlighting the gap between emerging teams and established football powers. However, consistent performances in international tournaments could further improve India’s standing.