The 2026 FIFA World Cup has set multiple records, including the highest total attendance in tournament history. 4,644,549 fans attended games, surpassing the previous record of 3,587,538 set during the 1994 World Cup in the U.S. The expanded 48-team format, featuring 104 matches across 16 host cities, contributed to the surge in attendance.
Player milestones were also achieved. Argentina’s Lionel Messi became the highest-scoring player in World Cup history with 19 goals, while Cristiano Ronaldo became the first to score in six different World Cups. Brazil continued its streak as the only nation to appear in every tournament since 1930.
Despite record-breaking attendance, concerns about empty seats persisted early in the tournament. FIFA reported 2.8 million beers, 1 million water bottles, and 300,000 hot dogs sold, indicating strong fan engagement. The U.S., Mexico, and Canada co-hosted the event, with the final scheduled for July 19.