What's Happening?
Fox Sports has announced a record-breaking schedule for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, with plans to broadcast 69 live games, marking the most extensive coverage in the network's history. This accounts for 66%
of the total 104 matches, with FS1 covering the remaining 35 games. The tournament, set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will be hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The U.S. team, as lead hosts, will play matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. Fox Sports will provide over 340 hours of first-run programming, including pre- and post-match analysis, significantly increasing from the 2022 World Cup coverage.
Why It's Important?
The expanded coverage by Fox Sports reflects the growing popularity of soccer in the United States. By broadcasting more games than ever before, Fox Sports aims to capture a larger audience and enhance the viewing experience for soccer fans. This move is expected to further solidify soccer's presence in the U.S. sports landscape, potentially increasing viewership and engagement. The extensive coverage also highlights the significance of the U.S. as a key player in hosting international sporting events, which could have positive economic impacts through tourism and global exposure.
What's Next?
A full broadcast schedule will be released following the draw on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. This will provide more details on the specific matchups and times, allowing fans to plan their viewing schedules. The increased coverage may also prompt other networks to enhance their sports programming, potentially leading to more competitive broadcasting strategies in the future.
