2026 World Cup sets all-time attendance record before knockout stages

The 2026 World Cup has become the best-attended edition in the tournament's history, with 3,605,357 fans having passed through turnstiles after 44 of 104 matches. The figure broke the previous record of 3,587,538 set during the 1994 World Cup, which was also hosted in the United States.

Thursday night's match between the USMNT and Turkiye at Los Angeles Stadium drew 70,492 spectators, one of several sellout crowds across the tournament. FIFA data shows a 99.7 percent occupancy rate across all 11 US host venues, which are NFL stadiums adapted for soccer.

Record-breaking numbers

• Total attendance after 44 games: 3,605,357 – surpassing the 1994 record of 3,587,538
• 70,492 fans attended USA vs. Turkiye in Los Angeles
• An estimated 50,000 Scotland supporters attended the team's first two matches in Boston
• All 11 US host stadiums reported 99.7% occupancy through the group stage
• 60 knockout-stage matches remain, with potential for further record increases

The tournament's strong attendance comes despite controversies over high ticket prices, travel difficulties, and hydration breaks. Players like Lionel Messi (Argentina), Kylian Mbappe (France), and Erling Haaland (Norway) have helped drive fan interest, with the Golden Boot race adding excitement.

Impact on future hosting

The success has prompted discussions about the US hosting the 2038 World Cup. Andrew Giuliani has reportedly raised the idea with President Donald Trump, though no formal bid has been made. The 2030 edition will be co-hosted by six countries, while Saudi Arabia is expected to bid for 2034.

Tab Ramos, a midfielder from the 1994 US team, noted that the current World Cup has already generated unprecedented attention for soccer in the United States. With the knockout rounds yet to begin, the tournament is on track to set further attendance benchmarks.