Who has won the Concacaf Gold Cup? Full list of champions and surprises

The Concacaf Gold Cup is the premier soccer competition for national teams in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Held approximately every two years, the tournament also occasionally invites guest nations from outside the region. Since its inception, it has served as the definitive stage to crown the top soccer nation across the continent.

Historically, Mexico has established itself as the most dominant force in the competition. El Tri have built an impressive trophy collection and remain the benchmark for excellence in the region. However, in recent decades, the United States has emerged as a formidable rival, consistently closing the gap and asserting its presence on the continental stage.

Though it may not receive the same global media attention as the Copa America or the UEFA European Championship, the Gold Cup carries significant regional prestige. It determines who truly reigns supreme among North American, Central American, and Caribbean soccer nations. The intensity and pride on display often match the world’s top tournaments.

The tournament’s roots trace back to 1963, when it was known as the Concacaf Championship. In 1991, it adopted the Gold Cup name and format we know today, replacing both the Concacaf Championship and regional competitions like the North America Nations Cup. Since then, the Gold Cup has evolved into a well-established and fiercely contested event.

Guillermo Ochoa #13 of Mexico celebrates after defeating Panama 1-0 in the Concacaf Gold Cup final

Gold Cup champions list

see also

How long is the 2025 Club World Cup opening ceremony? Duration and what fans should know

The most successful nations in Gold Cup history

Between 1963 and 2023, 30 different nations have participated in the tournament. Despite that number, only seven countries have reached the final since 1991, when the single-match final format was introduced. Among them, just three nations—Mexico, the United States, and Canada—have managed to lift the trophy, all hailing from North America.

Including the early Concacaf Championship titles, Mexico leads with a record 12 championships, followed by the United States with seven. Costa Rica, while yet to win in the Gold Cup era, has three titles from the competition’s early format. Statistically, these three teams also top the charts in all-time victories and appearances, illustrating their long-standing dominance in the region.

Memorable Gold Cup finals

One of the most iconic Gold Cup finals took place in 2011, when Mexico defeated the United States 4–2 in front of more than 93,000 fans at the Rose Bowl. After falling behind 2–0 early, Mexico mounted a stunning comeback capped by Giovani dos Santos’ dazzling solo goal, cementing one of the greatest performances in tournament history.

In 2007, it was the U.S. who had the last laugh. Facing Mexico in a hard-fought final, Benny Feilhaber scored a thunderous volley in the 73rd minute to seal a 2–1 win and deliver the Americans their fourth title. The match was symbolic of a generational shift, ushering in a new era for U.S. soccer filled with promise and renewed ambition.

see also

FIFA Club World Cup 2025 opening ceremony performers: Artists and lineup

More recently, the 2021 final added a dramatic chapter to the storied U.S.–Mexico rivalry. Played in Las Vegas, the match went to extra time before 24-year-old defender Miles Robinson headed in the game-winning goal in the 117th minute. The U.S., fielding a largely second-string squad, showcased its depth and resilience while sending a clear message about the future of American soccer.