WORLD CUP 2022
United States -- The 1994 World Cup host wouldn't need to build any new stadiums and says soccer could make a quantum leap in the world's biggest economy. Detractors point out that U.S. just hosted the World Cup 16 years ago. Odds: 4/5.
Qatar -- Upstart emirate has dropped millions on celebrity endorsements (Zinédine Zidane) and promised to build air-conditioned stadiums and training sites. But tiny country the size of Connecticut promises logistical problems, and a recently released FIFA report says the overpowering heat poses "a potential health risk for players, officials, the FIFA family and spectators." Odds: 9/4.
Australia -- Aussies have never hosted the World Cup and put on a successful 2000 Olympics in Sydney. But the time zone is bad for TV broadcasts in Europe and the Americas, and awarding the bid to any member of the Asian confederation (which includes Australia and the other non-U.S. bidders) would prevent FIFA favorite China from hosting the Cup until perhaps 2034. Odds: 5/2.
South Korea -- Longshot bid co-hosted '02 Cup, but adds political angle by promising to include North Korean host city. Odds: 12/1.
Japan -- Longshot bid co-hosted 2002 World Cup, but proposing high-tech event. Odds: 20/1.
WORLD CUP 2018
Russia -- Europe's biggest emerging soccer economy has never hosted World Cup, has support of Vladimir Putin and lots of oil money to finance new stadiums. Successful staging of World Cup '10 in South Africa has eased concerns about crime and security. Odds: 4/5.
England -- The birthplace of the sport hasn't hosted since 1966 and boasts world-class stadiums ready to host the Cup today, but England has won enemies in FIFA for media exposés on the bid process, including one that is set to run on the BBC this week before the vote. Odds: 7/4.
Spain/Portugal -- Spain hosted World Cup more recently (1982) than England and concerns exist about shared hosting duties and Portugal's economy, but the Iberians have friends in FIFA and have suggested their voting bloc already has eight members. Odds: 3/1.
Netherlands/Belgium -- Longshot bid has never gained much traction. Odds: 25/1.