Television ratings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final soared across Europe, showing the tournament’s strong appeal even after England and France were eliminated.

Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina on July 19 attracted huge audiences across the continent. The match became the most-watched World Cup broadcast in Spanish history and the second most-watched television event ever recorded in the country.

The final averaged 15.7 million viewers in Spain. It also achieved an impressive 87.1% audience share across RTVE’s La 1, 3Cat, La 2 and DAZN. In total, 20.1 million people watched at least part of the match.

Spanish newspaper El País linked the victory to a wider national story.

“It’s not difficult to see in this team, in the diversity of its players’ origins, in the character of its stars and its style of play and ability to connect with fans and citizens across-the-board a reflection of what this country is and can be in the 21st century,” said an editorial on Monday in Spanish newspaper El País.

France and England Still Draw Large Audiences

France saw a major drop in viewers after its semi-final exit. France’s clash with Spain attracted 20.2 million viewers and a 73% audience share on M6.

However, the World Cup final still drew 12.24 million viewers and a 59.2% audience share. The figures showed that millions of French fans continued to follow the tournament.

The United Kingdom recorded a smaller decline. England’s semi-final loss to Argentina averaged 22.1 million viewers and peaked at 24 million on BBC One.

The final remained a major television event. It averaged 13.9 million viewers and peaked at 15.8 million. The match also secured a 64% audience share across BBC One and iPlayer.

Italy and Global Stars Add to the Appeal

Italian audiences also tuned in despite the national team failing to qualify for the tournament.

The Spain-Argentina final attracted around 12.5 million viewers on RAI-1. Audience share climbed to 74% during extra time.

The match also drew global celebrities. Those in attendance included Justin Bieber, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Tom Cruise, David Beckham, Serena Williams, Carlos Alcaraz, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.

Strong ratings across Europe have increased interest in future FIFA media rights. Reports suggest Netflix, YouTube and Apple could compete for future World Cup broadcasting deals.