2026 World Cup TV Ratings Break Records for Fox and Telemundo

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is off to an exciting start, with Fox and Telemundo breaking records in TV ratings compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Nielsen data shows that an average of 6 million viewers tuned in to watch the first 16 group stage matches on Fox and FS1, marking a remarkable 128% increase from the previous World Cup. Telemundo, on the other hand, saw a 234% increase in viewership from four years ago, with an average of 7.5 million viewers for the first 12 group stage matches, streamed on Peacock as well.

In a historic moment for U.S. soccer, the U.S. Men’s National Team’s first match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium set a new record for the most-watched World Cup game on both English and Spanish language television. The match drew a massive audience of 18 million viewers on Fox and its streaming platforms, while Telemundo’s broadcast brought in an average of 9.5 million viewers.

These early ratings highlight the ongoing popularity of live sports events in capturing large audiences, especially in a time when streaming services have divided viewership. The World Cup’s real-time viewership levels outperform even the most-watched on-demand scripted TV shows, showcasing the immense appeal of live sports.

Experts note that hosting the World Cup in North America has had a significant impact on ratings, with Patrick Rishe, director of the sports business program at Washington University in St. Louis, highlighting this influence. With World Cup matches being held in the U.S. for the first time since 1994, and a competitive USMNT playing in front of home crowds, fans can expect even higher viewership numbers in the upcoming matches. Fox is anticipating another record-breaking turnout when the U.S. team plays its third group stage match in prime time on June 25.