World Cup audience stayed bipartisan despite Trump's prominent role, CNBC survey finds
Nearly half of registered voters watched the 2026 World Cup, with income and education shaping viewership more than party affiliation, the survey found.
The World Cup's massive global audience remained largely bipartisan during its recent broadcast, with a CNBC survey indicating that nearly half of registered voters in the US tuned in. This is notable given the high profile of certain personalities involved, including former US President Donald Trump. The survey's findings suggest that interest in the World Cup was not significantly influenced by party affiliation.
Instead, the survey found that income and education level played a more significant role in determining viewership. This trend is consistent with broader patterns in sports consumption, where affluent and educated demographics tend to have higher rates of engagement. The World Cup's broad appeal across party lines is a testament to the event's status as a global spectacle that transcends national and cultural boundaries.
Looking ahead, industry stakeholders will be watching to see if future international sporting events can replicate the World Cup's broad appeal. Additionally, with the increasing globalization of sports media, understanding audience demographics and preferences will be crucial for broadcasters and sponsors seeking to capitalize on major events. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the ability to reach diverse audiences will remain a key consideration for those involved in the sports broadcasting industry.
Originally reported by cnbc.com. Trade-News adds analysis for finance & markets readers.