Since its start in 1977, the FIFA U-20 World Cup has been a platform for soccer’s new talents. Each tournament highlights emerging players, exciting games, and nations making their mark globally.
Some countries have had periods of dominance, while others have achieved surprising wins. The list of winners each year shows changing strengths in the sport, highlighting moments that often predict future stars.
Looking at the winners over the years reveals both consistent excellence and brief moments of glory. The overall list of champions reflects the changing landscape of youth soccer.
Who was the last FIFA U-20 World Cup champion?
The Uruguay U-20 national team is the current champion of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, winning their first title at the 2023 tournament in Argentina. They defeated Italy 1-0 in a close final on June 11, 2023, marking their victory after finishing as runners-up in 1997 and 2013.
Uruguay U20 players celebrating with the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup trophy. (Source: Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)
The key moment came late in the game when forward Luciano Rodriguez scored with a header in the 86th minute, causing celebrations throughout Uruguay. This victory capped off a strong tournament run for coach Marcelo Broli’s team, featuring wins against Gambia, the USA, and Israel in the knockout stage.
This championship established the 2023 team as a golden generation, showing that teamwork and solid defense are often essential for winning, even as individual talents like Italy’s Golden Ball winner Cesare Casadei are highlighted.
Which country has won the most FIFA U-20 World Cups?
In the conversation about FIFA U-20 World Cup dominance, Argentina stands out with the most titles, having won an impressive six championships in the tournament’s history.
Sergio Aguero and Maximiliano Moralez with the FIFA U-20 World Cup trophy in 2007. (Source: Dave Sandford/Getty Images)
This remarkable record highlights Argentina’s strong tradition of developing young talent, which saw legends like Diego Maradona (1979) and Lionel Messi (2005) emerge at the U-20 level.
The peak of their success was between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s under coach Jose Nestor Pekerman, who led them to three titles in four tournaments (1995, 1997, and 2001). Argentina added two more trophies in 2005 and 2007, often showcasing unmatched skill and tactical awareness.
While Brazil, their strong continental rivals, follow close with five titles, Argentina’s six championships solidify their position as the most successful nation in the history of the competition.
FIFA U-20 World Cup champions all-time list by year
| Year | Champion |
| 2023 | Uruguay |
| 2019 | Ukraine |
| 2017 | England |
| 2015 | Serbia |
| 2013 | France |
| 2011 | Brazil |
| 2009 | Ghana |
| 2007 | Argentina |
| 2005 | Argentina |
| 2003 | Brazil |
| 2001 | Argentina |
| 1999 | Spain |
| 1997 | Argentina |
| 1995 | Argentina |
| 1993 | Brazil |
| 1991 | Portugal |
| 1989 | Portugal |
| 1987 | Yugoslavia |
| 1985 | Brazil |
| 1983 | Brazil |
| 1981 | West Germany |
| 1979 | Argentina |
| 1977 | Soviet Union |