FIFA World Cup 2026 Sets New All‑Time Attendance Record

During the group‑stage match between Germany and Ecuador at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the 2026 FIFA World Cup recorded a cumulative total of 3,605,357 spectators, surpassing the previous all‑time tournament attendance record set in 1994. The figure was displayed on the stadium’s big screens, confirming a new milestone before the knockout rounds.

The tournament, expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico, is averaging about 65,000 fans per game and achieving a stadium‑capacity rate of 99.7%. The record reflects the larger venues in North America, with MetLife Stadium alone holding roughly 80,000 seats, and highlights the high demand for the expanded format.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the achievement as evidence of football’s global appeal, while analysts note that ticket prices and travel‑visa constraints have limited even greater attendance possibilities.