The thrilling 2022 World Cup final that saw Argentina triumph over France was also a triumph for broadcasters. The game turned out to be the most-watched soccer game in US television and streaming history.
The game itself was one of the most exciting and memorable contests ever. A raucous comeback for France after a 2-0 draw late in the second half. Two goals from Messi (plus a goal in the penalty shootout). Mbappé scored a hat-trick, including the game-tying penalty goal in the 118th minute. This game had everyone struggling to catch their collective breath for the last 30 minutes of action. Argentina and France certainly delivered a game worthy of attracting so many eyes.
Previous reports had a total audience of just under 26 million. But those numbers included pregame and postgame coverage timeslots on FOX. When measured just as the game itself, whistle for whistle, the final numbers from FOX, Telemundo and the streaming platforms dwarfed 28 million viewers:
The final of the 2022 World Cup, the most viewed in history
That staggering total figure makes it a record, surpassing the 2014 final (Argentina vs. Germany in Brazil) which drew a similar amount of 27.314 million on ESPN and Univision. While that game from eight years ago saw Messi and Argentina come up short, perhaps the allure of what could be the legendary #10’s final World Cup match drew far more casual viewers.
While the 2022 World Cup final was the most watched in history, all eyes now turn to the 2026 World Cup and the 48-team North American World Cup in the US. , Mexico and Canada, which is sure to set some records of its own. You should expect many of the group stage games to be in the tens of millions due to more convenient start times and increased interest.
