The FIFA World Cup 2026 has proven to be a ratings juggernaut for Fox Sports, with the quarterfinals delivering their four largest English-language audiences ever. While the hosts, including Canada, were eliminated in the round of 16, the tournament's popularity has not waned. The England vs. Norway match on Saturday attracted a massive 21.8 million viewers, surpassing the previous English-language high for a World Cup quarterfinal in the United States. Argentina's victory over Switzerland brought in 18.15 million viewers, further cementing the tournament's appeal. France's win over Morocco on Thursday garnered 10.25 million viewers, and Spain's victory over Belgium on Friday, though with the smallest audience of the quartet, still managed 9.87 million viewers.
These impressive numbers are a testament to the World Cup's enduring popularity, despite the absence of the host nation. The tournament's ability to consistently draw large audiences is a significant achievement, especially considering the recent changes to Nielsen's measurement methods, which have generally benefited live sports. The England/Norway and Argentina/Switzerland matches, in particular, showcase the tournament's ability to transcend the marginal gains typically associated with such changes.
The Spanish-language telecasts on Telemundo and Peacock are expected to further boost the overall viewership, adding 5 million or more viewers to each total. This is a testament to the World Cup's global appeal and its ability to engage diverse audiences. Fox's average viewership for the quarterfinals was a staggering 15.64 million, a 150% increase from the 2022 tournament. This surge in ratings highlights the tournament's ability to captivate audiences and the strategic value of securing broadcasting rights.
In my opinion, the World Cup's success is a result of its ability to create a global community, bringing people together in a shared passion for the sport. The tournament's ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers is remarkable, and it continues to be a platform for showcasing the best talent in the world. As the tournament progresses, I anticipate further surprises and memorable moments that will solidify the World Cup's place as one of the most-watched sporting events globally.
