FOX Sports and Telemundo are positioned for a massive financial win during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to a report by Sportico, early projections suggest the two networks could combine for as much as $850 million in advertising revenue.
That total would more than double the $384.3 million generated during the 2018 tournament.
According to the reporting, the tournament’s North American footprint provides a built-in boost. Matches will be play across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with 11 U.S. venues involved. That setup should increase domestic interest and viewership.
Also, inventory has expanded significantly. FIFA’s move from 32 to 48 teams adds 40 matches. More matches mean more commercial opportunities for both FOX Sports and Telemundo.
Additional ad inventory will also come from new in-match elements. FIFA has introduced two hydration breaks per game. Those breaks create six extra minutes of sellable airtime per match. That is a major shift for a sport that traditionally offers no natural commercial windows.
Demand reflects the opportunity. Media buyers report minimum commitments of roughly $10 million to secure time in FOX Sports’ coverage. Premium matches, including U.S. group stage games, command significant price increases.
The networks have also held back select inventory. That strategy positions them to capitalize on a potentially strong scatter market closer to kickoff. Out-of-home viewing adds another revenue layer. Nielsen data shows more than 30% of Gold Cup Final viewing occurred outside the home. World Cup matches are expected to deliver similar patterns, increasing total impressions.
Major global brands have already secured positions, with more expected to enter the market in the coming months. For FOX Sports and Telemundo, the equation is simple. More matches, more inventory, and bigger audiences should translate into record-setting revenue in 2026.
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