Fox is reportedly displeased with ESPN’s limited World Cup coverage, according to Front Office Sports. The complaints arise following the U.S. team’s standout performance in its opening match, which garnered nearly 25 million viewers.
What happened
The World Cup is taking place in eleven NFL stadiums across the United States. Following the U.S. victory over Paraguay, which marked the first three-goal win for the U.S. in a World Cup since 1930, Fox has expressed frustration at the lack of coverage on ESPN. According to Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports, “some Fox executives are frustrated” because ESPN has not adequately focused on this historic event.
An unnamed source emphasized the significance of the U.S. victory, stating, “Where in the hell was ESPN?” This criticism reflects Fox’s concern over ESPN not providing sufficient airtime for a moment deemed critical in American soccer history. In 2018, Fox acquired broadcast rights for the World Cup, paying $485 million for the tournament.
FIFA’s broadcast rules complicate coverage further. Under these rules, ESPN cannot show highlights of the day’s games until all matches have ended. Additionally, highlights are restricted to the show SportsCenter and cannot be shared in other programming.
Why it matters
The dynamics of sports broadcasting remain pivotal during major international events like the World Cup. ESPN’s hesitance to prioritize soccer may indicate a broader trend in how sports networks allocate coverage based on viewer interest. Given that nearly 25 million viewers tuned in for the opening match, the stakes for increased exposure are high.
As networks like ESPN lean toward content that engages their audience, this coverage gap may affect viewer perceptions and engagement with soccer in the United States. With the NFL owning 10 percent of ESPN, the network’s focus on football over other sports can further fragment sporting narratives.
Background
Fox assumed World Cup broadcasting rights in 2018, previously held by ESPN. Since that acquisition, Fox has invested heavily into soccer, indicating a significant shift in how the sport is presented to American audiences. On May 27, 2026, Fox reported paying $485 million to cover the full tournament.
The 2026 World Cup is significant not only for its location but also for the growing interest in soccer within the U.S. The backdrop of global competitions has increasingly attracted larger audiences, marking a potential turning point for the sport’s popularity in America.
What’s next
ESPN has committed to increasing coverage of the World Cup, with host Mike Greenberg promising daily updates on the event. As Major League Baseball and the College World Series unfold, the focus on the World Cup is set to intensify throughout the tournament’s duration.
