The 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup is currently underway. In the last 88 years, 8 countries have won the 20 editions between them. Which of course means, some have won it more than once.
Of course, there have been gaps between victories. Brazil had a gap of 24 years (1970 and 1994) as did Germany (1990 and 2014), though it was West Germany back in 1990. Uruguay had a 20-year interval (1930 and 1950) between their two titles.
But the country that holds the largest gap is Italy. 44 years! Yes, that is the longest interval between two titles. Incidentally Italy were also the first team to win consecutive World Cups (1934 and 1938). But the next one came in 1982! 24 years later they won in 2006 to complete 4 titles.
But getting back to the 44-year gap. Yes it is a long time. and of course the fans, brand of football, stars and competition level would have changed in that gap. Italy triumphed nonetheless and perhaps there are only a handful of people who have watched both finals and are still around now.
That is the beauty of football, time is never a factor.
Tag: Sports