Israel's public broadcaster Kan 11 recorded its largest audience since 1998 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, drawing 1.57 million viewers and a 40.6% rating, the network said. The match, which took place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, surpassed all recent major sporting events on the channel.
How the numbers stack up
The 1.57 million viewers represent the highest single-game audience for Kan 11 in nearly three decades. The 40.6% rating means that more than four out of every ten television households in Israel tuned in at some point during the broadcast. The previous high-water mark for the network was the 1998 World Cup final, though exact figures from that match were not immediately available for comparison.
Kan 11's coverage of the 2026 tournament overall drew strong audiences, but the final was the standout. The network did not disclose whether the match went to extra time or penalties, which typically boost viewership.
The 2026 World Cup was the first to feature 48 teams, expanded from 32. The final was played in the United States, which co-hosted with Canada and Mexico. Time zone differences meant the match aired in Israel during prime evening hours, likely contributing to the high numbers.
Kan 11 has faced competition from streaming platforms and other broadcasters in recent years, but live sports remain a key draw for traditional television. The 40.6% rating is particularly notable given the fragmentation of the media landscape.
The network did not provide demographic breakdowns or streaming figures. It is unclear how many viewers watched via Kan 11's digital platforms, which are not included in the traditional ratings measurement.
Kan 11 is expected to release its full World Cup ratings report later this week, including viewership for the semifinals and other key matches. The network will also look ahead to the 2026-27 sports season, including UEFA Champions League coverage and the 2027 Women's World Cup.
The broadcaster's record-breaking audience underscores the enduring power of live sports events to draw mass audiences, even as linear television faces long-term declines.
