Data shows significant shift in U.S. sports popularity over 20 years
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 7:00 PM
Last updated Aug 13, 2026

A study analyzing two decades of sports popularity in the U.S. reveals significant changes. Formula 1 emerges as the fastest-growing sport, with a 258% increase in interest, particularly in states like Alaska, where popularity soared by 600%. Basketball remains consistently popular, registering a growth of nearly 130%, while American football leads overall but shows slowed growth. Despite its global stature, soccer is declining in several states. The report highlights evolving engagement trends among younger audiences and changing cultural factors that influence sports consumption.
- •Formula 1 sees 258% rise in popularity over two decades.
- •Basketball grows by 129.91%, especially in Delaware and North Dakota.
- •American football's growth slows despite its dominant position.
- •Soccer faces decline in states like Florida and Georgia.
- •Golf experiences a significant downturn, dropping over 70% in key states.
- 7:00 PMYahoo Sports — 20 Years of Data Reveals a Major Shift in U.S. Sports Popularity
"America’s sporting identity is shifting, and it’s happening faster than most people realize.
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