FIFA World Cup became the best-attended tournament in the competition’s history on Thursday, officially eclipsing the long-standing record set during the 1994 edition in the United States.
FIFA announced the new benchmark of 3,605,357 spectators during the second half of Germany’s match against Ecuador at MetLife Stadium. The figure flashed across giant screens inside the venue, drawing loud applause from fans in attendance as the tournament continued its strong run at the gates.
The previous record stood at nearly 3.6 million fans across the entire 1994 tournament, which featured just 52 matches. With 48 games still to be played in 2026, total attendance could approach or even approach double that mark a remarkable feat given the expanded 48 team format.
Stadiums across the tournament have been operating at more than 99% capacity on average, reflecting robust demand despite logistical challenges.
Economist Victor Matheson, a sports business expert at the College of the Holy Cross, noted that high ticket prices and travel restrictions under President Donald Trump’s administration may have prevented some international supporters from attending.
Nevertheless, large numbers of fans have still flocked to venues, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the group stage and beyond.
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