The annual tradition of Scotland pretending not to notice England’s World Cup chances has officially begun after new odds released by BetVictor placed England among the favourites to win the 2026 tournament.

According to the latest markets analysed by BetVictor, France lead the way with an implied 40 per cent chance of lifting the trophy, while England and Spain sit level in second place on 22.2 per cent, with Argentina just behind on 20 per cent.

The figures have been described as perfectly reasonable by football analysts and considerably less welcome by many people north of the border.

For Scottish football supporters, this is the point in every major tournament where conversations become noticeably more complicated, with many finding themselves reluctantly admitting that England might actually have a decent team before immediately changing the subject.

It is also the time of year when an otherwise straightforward weather forecast somehow turns into a discussion about France’s midfield, Spain’s defence and whether Argentina still have one more great tournament in them.

BetVictor’s calculations suggest England have every chance of reaching the latter stages of the competition under Thomas Tuchel, although Scottish optimism remains firmly invested elsewhere.

France remain the bookmakers’ favourites thanks to another outstanding squad, while Spain continue to impress after conceding just one goal during the tournament, leaving Scotland with plenty of alternatives should a temporary second favourite become necessary.

The Golden Boot market is equally competitive, with France’s Kylian Mbappe leading the way ahead of Lionel Messi, while England captain Harry Kane remains among the leading contenders.

None of this guarantees anything, of course.

Football has a habit of ignoring predictions, upsetting bookmakers and reminding everyone why the matches are played on the pitch rather than on a spreadsheet.

Until then, Scotland will continue doing what Scotland has always done whenever England are tipped for glory.

Keeping a close eye on the French, the Spanish and the Argentinians.

Purely out of sporting interest, obviously.