The U.S., co-hosting the 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup across North America, has shattered attendance records by surpassing 8 million spectators.
FIFA announced on July 5 via social media that the U.S. has set a new benchmark for cumulative attendance among all FIFA World Cup host nations.
As of the Round of 16 clash between France and Paraguay in Philadelphia on July 5, the tournament has drawn 4,420,064 fans across 69 matches held on American soil.
Back in 1994, when the U.S. solely hosted the World Cup, it attracted 3,587,538 spectators over 52 matches. With this year’s turnout, the total attendance for World Cup matches in the U.S. has soared to 8,008,212, decisively breaking the 8 million barrier.
FIFA lauded this milestone, stating that it celebrates the incredible passion for soccer in the U.S.
Before the tournament kicked off, there were concerns about potential low attendance due to steep ticket prices and U.S. visa regulations.
However, these worries have been emphatically dispelled. The tournament has been a resounding success, thanks to the mammoth-sized stadiums capable of hosting massive crowds and the daily dose of thrilling matches. The U.S. team’s impressive run to the Round of 16 has further fueled the surge in attendance, drawing legions of fans to the stadiums.