The first country to win a FIFA World Cup was Uruguay, which triumphed in the inaugural tournament held in 1930. This historic event took place in Uruguay, celebrating the centenary of its first constitution. 

The tournament featured 13 teams, with matches primarily held in Montevideo, particularly at the newly constructed Estadio Centenario.

Uruguay entered the tournament as the pre-tournament favorites, having recently won the Olympic football title in 1928.

The competition began with four groups, and Uruguay emerged victorious from its group, eventually reaching the semi-finals alongside Argentina, the United States, and Yugoslavia.

In the final match on July 30, 1930, Uruguay faced Argentina in a highly anticipated showdown. The match drew a crowd of 68,346 spectators and ended with Uruguay defeating Argentina 4-2, cementing its place in football history as the first World Cup champion.

This tournament was unique as it was the only World Cup without a qualification process, inviting all FIFA-affiliated nations to participate.

The success of the 1930 World Cup laid the groundwork for future tournaments, establishing a global stage for national teams.

Uruguay’s victory in 1930 remains a significant milestone in football history, marking the beginning of what would become the world’s most prestigious sporting event.

The next World Cup in 2030 will honor this centennial achievement by returning to the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo.