Kicking Off: Soccer's Meteoric Rise in North America

Soccer's popularity in North America has surged by 10.9% over the past five years, amassing over 136 million fans. Nielsen reports indicate a significant rise in viewership, particularly catalyzed by Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami CF. This growing interest lays groundwork for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Soccer's fan base in North America has climbed by 10.9% over the last five years, reaching more than 136 million people, according to a Nielsen report released Tuesday. The surge comes as anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

A notable highlight from the report is a 173% spike in linear viewership from Lionel Messi’s debut for Inter Miami CF during the 2023 Leagues Cup. The MLS Cup final witnessed a dramatic 97% viewership growth over 2024, driven by Inter Miami's victory. The findings emphasize an escalated interest in domestic soccer.

The US holds the world's fourth-largest soccer fan base, totaling 62.5 million. Interest in soccer is anticipated to grow, with 64% of respondents optimistic about the sport's future popularity. In Mexico, soccer leads in sports engagement at 63%, while the US and Canada rank it fourth and third, respectively. The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin Thursday.