USA-Belgium Draws Record 30 Million Viewers

The United States' 4-1 World Cup round of 16 loss to Belgium drew 30 million viewers on Fox Monday night, setting a new record for English-language soccer broadcasts in the country, according to early Nielsen figures. The preliminary numbers surpass the previous record of 26.4 million viewers, set just five days earlier during the Americans' match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1. Final ratings, which will incorporate additional data and out-of-home viewership, are expected later this week. Viewership peaked between 9:15 and 9:30 p.m. during the second half, reaching 36.9 million viewers. Spanish-language figures from Telemundo and Peacock were not yet available, though combined totals across both broadcasts are likely to exceed 40 million. The match carried added controversy after FIFA suspended a red card ban for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun shortly before kickoff, clearing him to play. U.S. Soccer reportedly threatened legal action against FIFA over the officiating decision that led to his ejection in the previous match. President Donald Trump also addressed the situation, saying he personally contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino regarding the suspension. The loss eliminates all three World Cup co-hosts from the tournament, following earlier exits by Canada and Mexico in the round of 16. England's 3-2 win over Mexico on Sunday also set a ratings record, drawing 23.1 million viewers on Telemundo for the largest Spanish-language soccer audience in U.S. history. Fox's five U.S. matches this tournament have averaged more than 21 million viewers. The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France drew a combined 26.78 million viewers across English and Spanish broadcasts.