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SportsFIFA: 2026 World Cup total attendance exceeds 6.65 million, setting a historic record
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FIFA announced that over 6.5 million spectators attended matches across the United States, Mexico, and Canada during the 2026 World Cup, setting a historic record for the first 48-team tournament. The exact figure, excluding the third-place match and final, stands at 6,665,825. Despite initial concerns about empty stadiums due to American perceptions of soccer, high ticket prices, and weather, fans showed up in large numbers. The group stage alone drew over 5 million people. FIFA also reported a huge influx of tourists from 200 countries, with notable support from Norwegian and South American fans. Argentine fans were particularly visible, and the tournament benefited from being held on the same continent as many South American nations, making travel easier compared to previous World Cups in Russia.
Source report
Ahead of the third-place match and the final, FIFA has announced that more than 6.5 million spectators have attended World Cup matches across stadiums in the three host countries — a historic record for the first 48-team tournament.
Attendance Figures
Before the tournament, concerns were raised that stadiums might be empty, given the perception that Americans are less engaged with football (or "soccer," as it is known locally). Despite these concerns, unfavorable weather, and high ticket prices, the public turned out in force.
The group stage alone drew more than 5 million spectators. FIFA has now released the updated attendance figure for the entire competition, excluding the third-place match and the final, which take place this Saturday (11 PM) and Sunday (9 PM):
6,665,825 spectators attended a World Cup match in stadiums across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
With a 48-team format replacing the previous 32-team structure, and 40 additional matches, the attendance is naturally historic.
Global Fan Presence
Despite numerous denials of entry onto U.S. soil — notably by customs authorities and through unvalidated visas — FIFA reported a significant influx of tourists from 200 different countries.
Notable fan groups included:
- Norwegians, who traveled in large numbers to support their team and created one of the tournament's most memorable moments with the viral "Viking row" choreography.
- Argentine fans, who once again filled the stands to support their team.
- South American supporters in general, who benefited from the tournament being held on the same continent, making travel to the United States far easier than to a host nation like Russia on the other side of the world.
The challenge, however, remains navigating U.S. customs — a task that has proven difficult for many.
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By Daniel Kolchanov
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2026 FIFA World Cup Breaks All-Time Attendance Record