The number of soccer fans in the United States increases by almost 10 million over a year, according to new Nielsen research released this week. The study says 75.2 million Americans identify as soccer fans in July 2026, up from 66.8 million in July 2025—figures that come as part of the period following the Men’s World Cup, which ends in July.
Outlets also point to increases beyond general fandom. Yahoo Sports and The Athletic report that Nielsen’s data shows higher MLS viewing, with gains cited for audiences watching on Fox and FS1. The Athletic adds that the report finds viewership rises not only for MLS but also for other major leagues, including the Premier League and La Liga.
While the outlets highlight different components—overall fan counts versus specific broadcast and league viewing—the common thread is that Nielsen measures broad growth in U.S. soccer interest during the World Cup cycle, with the biggest year-over-year jump occurring in the July measurement window.
