Home / Sports / World Cup Ratings Shatter Records: Semifinals Draw Millions
World Cup Ratings Shatter Records: Semifinals Draw Millions
19 Jul
Summary
- World Cup semifinals drew a combined 25.6 million viewers.
- USA-Belgium game reached 50.1 million viewers, a historic number.
- Telemundo and Fox Sports saw significant viewership increases.
The 2026 World Cup has captivated audiences, setting new benchmarks for televised sports viewership in the United States. The recent semifinals alone garnered a combined audience of 25.6 million viewers across Fox and Telemundo, eclipsing previous records for the round.
Viewership peaked during the Round of 16, notably with the USA-Belgium match drawing an impressive 50.1 million viewers. This figure places it among the most-watched sporting events of the past year, second only to the Super Bowl and a Thanksgiving NFL game.
Both Telemundo and Fox Sports have experienced remarkable growth. Telemundo's semifinal coverage saw a 136% increase compared to four years prior, while Fox's coverage surged by 131%. These unprecedented gains highlight a significant expansion of soccer's appeal in the American market, with the combined reach of all telecasts rivaling top NFL events. The upcoming final between Argentina and Spain is anticipated to set even higher viewership records, further cementing the 2026 World Cup as a ratings phenomenon.
