Nearly half of American soccer fans are taking time off work to watch the World Cup, according to a survey conducted during the tournament's opening week. The study, which polled 2,000 individuals, found that 26 percent of working fans have skipped work at least once or twice to tune into matches. A more dedicated 14 percent reported prioritizing the World Cup entirely, watching multiple games during work hours throughout the competition.
World Cup fever appears to be affecting American workplaces, particularly as the tournament progresses into its crucial knockout rounds. The survey, administered online by Talker Research between June 11 and June 17, 2026, highlights a widespread commitment among fans, even when games fall during typical business hours.
"Argentina fans react as they watch the World Cup match between Argentina and Austria at a bar in New York City on June 22, 2026."
The survey also gauged general interest in the tournament. While 52 percent of respondents expressed no interest in watching the games, 32 percent planned to follow select matches, including those featuring the United States. A further 12 percent aimed to watch as much as possible, with 4 percent identifying as diehards who intended to watch every game.
Completing the entire World Cup schedule involves viewing 72 group stage matches and 32 knockout games, totaling 156 hours of soccer before accounting for any extra time or penalty shootouts. This is equivalent to nearly 20 full working days.
Interest in the World Cup appears to be growing among younger demographics. The survey indicated that Gen Z is more likely to watch the tournament than older generations, with only 36 percent of Gen Z reporting they would not watch any games, compared to 64 percent of baby boomers. Confidence in performing under pressure was also higher among the young, with 43 percent of Gen Z believing they could convert a penalty kick, versus 37 percent of millennials, 26 percent of Gen X, and 12 percent of baby boomers.