FIFA World Cup 2026 Breaks Broadcast Records Across North America as Opening Matches Draw Massive Audiences

World Cup breaks broadcast records in USA, claim FIFA

Opening matches of the ongoing World Cup that involved the tournament’s host nations of USA, Canada and Mexico delivered record-breaking audiences across North America, FIFA has said.

More than one million fans have watched matches from inside stadiums and over 54 million tuned in to watch opening matches featuring the thre teams.

USA's opening victory over Paraguay attracted an average audience of 27.5 million viewers across FOX and Telemundo, making it the most-watched FIFA World Cup match ever broadcast in the US, FIFA said in an official communique.

"What we are witnessing here is truly historic. The United States' opening match against Paraguay was the most-watched FIFA World Cup match ever broadcast in the United States, while more than 54 million people across Canada, Mexico and the United States watched their respective nations opening matches, shattering records and showing how football is truly uniting the world," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.

“These figures tell you everything about what this tournament means to these countries, this continent and the entire world. However, this is not just about numbers - this is about millions of people from every corner of the world, coming together through football. The atmosphere, energy and passion I feel in these host countries is something incredibly special. The fans inside full stadiums, those watching at home, and some celebrating in the streets are all part of something unique.”