World Cup 2026 Expected to Set Massive Global TV and Streaming Audiences

The 2026 World Cup is widely expected to become one of the most-watched sporting events in the world, with the expanded format and global reach likely to drive huge television and streaming audiences.

The 48-team expansion (104 matches vs 64 in 2022) is the biggest factor. Analysts expect the extra match inventory, wider geographic reach, and heavy global interest to drive very large overall audiences across both traditional television and digital viewing.

Digital and streaming platforms are expected to play a bigger role than ever before, especially among younger audiences who increasingly follow major tournaments across multiple screens at once.

Superstar-driven storylines, including Argentina's title defense, are also expected to contribute to especially strong global interest.