Post-World Cup soccer viewership increases significantly among young fans

Nielsen reported significant viewership increases for soccer in the U.S. following the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup, which concluded in July. Major League Soccer saw a 55% increase in male viewers aged 18-34 and a 29% increase among adults in the same age range for its matches on Fox and FS1. Similarly, viewership for England's Premier League rose by 30% and LaLiga by 60% among adults 18-34. U.S. soccer fandom has grown from 66.8 million in July 2025 to 75.2 million in July 2026. Following the World Cup, MLS launched a marketing campaign to attract new fans, resulting in a surge in ticket and merchandise sales for several teams.

• 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Nielsen: Post–World Cup Soccer Audiences Surge Among Young Viewers