The World Cup in North America hits a record 2.3 million after the first 36 matches

TOPSHOT - Iranian fans show pre-revolutionary Iranian flags during the 2026 World Cup Group G football match between Belgium and Iran at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on June 21, 2026. -- Photo by Etienne Laurent / AFP

NEW YORK (Xinhua): The 2026 World Cup continues to set attendance records, according to figures released by FIFA.

Football's global governing body said the first 36 matches of the tournament across the United States (US), Mexico and Canada attracted a total of 2,307,947 spectators.

That equates to an average attendance of 64,100 per match, with stadium occupancy standing at 99.54 per cent of total capacity despite empty seats being visible during television broadcasts.

The strong turnout has come despite concerns over expensive ticket prices and travel difficulties faced by supporters from some participating nations.

While high attendance figures are expected in football-mad Mexico, the numbers are also notable in the US and Canada, where football competes for attention with several more established team sports. -- Xinhua