The FIFA World Cup 2026 has proven to be a ratings bonanza for US television, with the quarterfinals delivering massive audiences and breaking previous records. The highly anticipated matches have captivated viewers, despite the absence of the host nations in the latter stages of the tournament.
The England-Norway match on Saturday was the most-watched quarterfinal, attracting 21.8 million viewers on Fox. This is a significant increase from the 2022 World Cup, where France's victory over England drew 8.86 million viewers. The Argentina-Switzerland match followed closely behind, with 18.15 million viewers tuning in.
These numbers are even more impressive considering the recent changes to Nielsen's measurement system, which has favored live sports. The France-Morocco match on Thursday attracted 10.25 million viewers, while Spain-Belgium had the smallest audience of the quarterfinals with 9.87 million.
The Spanish-language telecasts on Telemundo and Peacock are expected to add a substantial number of viewers, with trends from earlier rounds suggesting an additional 5 million or more. This further emphasizes the tournament's appeal to a diverse audience.
Fox's average viewership for the quarterfinals was 15.64 million, a staggering 150% increase from the 2022 tournament. This surge in ratings highlights the enduring popularity of the World Cup and its ability to engage viewers even when the host nation is not participating.
What makes this World Cup particularly fascinating is the global appeal of the sport and the tournament's ability to transcend national boundaries. The high ratings suggest that the World Cup continues to be a major event, uniting fans from various countries and cultures. The absence of the host nations has not deterred viewers, indicating a strong interest in the tournament's progression.
In my opinion, the World Cup's success in attracting audiences is a testament to the sport's universal appeal and the tournament's ability to create a global community of fans. The high ratings and continued interest despite the host nations' elimination demonstrate the power of international football to captivate and unite people worldwide.
