2006 FIFA World Cup — Germany.
Updated June 20, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial · ● Live Last updated: 2026-06-21T02:18:50Z
Direct answer
The 2006 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Germany (9 June – 9 July 2006) with 32 teams. Champion: Italy. The final was Italy 1–1 France (5–3 pens) at Olympiastadion, Berlin. Top scorer: Miroslav Klose (5).
The story of 2006
Italy's fourth title, won on penalties after Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi got him sent off in the final match of his career. Italy conceded only two goals all tournament; Fabio Cannavaro's defending earned him the Ballon d'Or. Germany's "Sommermärchen" reignited the host nation's love of the game.
Edition facts
| Host | Germany |
| Dates | 9 June – 9 July 2006 |
| Teams | 32 |
| Format | Groups → knockout |
| Champion | Italy |
| Runner-up | France |
| Final | Italy 1–1 France (5–3 pens) |
| Final venue | Olympiastadion, Berlin |
| Third place | Germany |
| Top scorer | Miroslav Klose (5) |
| Best player (Golden Ball) | Zidane |
| Official mascot | Goleo |
| Official ball | +Teamgeist |
| Total attendance | 3,359,439 |
| Total goals | 147 |
Related
See the full finals history, the all-time statistics tables, and our top-20 player legends. For the current edition, the standings and World Cup 2026 hub are live.
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