NEW YORK – Web Desk: The Round of 16 clash between Mexico and England at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has become the most-watched football match in US television history, breaking previous viewership records.
According to preliminary data, the match was watched by a total of 44.8 million viewers across the United States, surpassing the previous record of approximately 42 million viewers for the US-Belgium match. Telemundo drew 23.2 million viewers, while Fox broadcast the match to 21.742 million viewers.
The Fox broadcast of the match was also the most-watched World Cup match in English without the US team. During the final moments, viewership on Fox spiked to 25.7 million. The high-voltage encounter at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium saw England secure victory with a disciplined performance — holding their lead despite being reduced to 10 men.
The figures are preliminary, and Nielsen’s final ratings could add to the viewership total.
