2026 FIFA World Cup sets new television viewership records

Co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this expanded 48-team tournament became a cultural milestone, cementing soccer’s place in the American mainstream.

The final match between Spain and Argentina captured a staggering 63 million viewers across U.S. broadcasts, with Fox and Telemundo/Peacock both setting all-time records.

Across the tournament, viewership soared, with a 128% increase in average audience size compared to 2022.

Digital platforms played a crucial role in this growth; Telemundo experienced a nearly 300% surge in streaming, proving that fans are increasingly turning to apps and websites to follow the action.

With Spain taking home the trophy and Kylian Mbappé making history as the top goalscorer, the 2026 tournament was more than just a sporting event—it was a massive entertainment phenomenon.

As viewership figures now rival the NFL, it is clear that soccer has entered a new golden age in North America, engaging millions through both traditional broadcasts and modern digital streaming.