Almost 5 million people tuned into SBS’ broadcast of Australia’s opening match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sunday’s broadcast of the Socceroos’ 2-0 victory over Türkiye reached 4.78 million Australians, topping the national free-to-air ratings and setting new audience records for the network under the VOZ measurement system.
The match averaged 3.035 million viewers across linear television and SBS On Demand, with 41.4% of that audience watching via the streaming platform. It was the third most-watched event of the year across all free-to-air networks.
SBS dominates Sunday ratings
SBS’s World Cup programming claimed the top three programs on Sunday.
The post-match program drew 2.893 million viewers, the pre-match program attracted 2.599 million, and the Australia versus Türkiye match itself topped the night.
The network also placed five programs in the top ten, with the Brazil versus Morocco match reaching 1.846 million and the Haiti versus Scotland match reaching 1.501 million.
Tournament reach passes 8 million
Across the first three days of the tournament, SBS achieved a total TV reach of 8.139 million Australians – 5.431 million on linear television and 3.458 million on SBS On Demand.
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SBS Director of Sport Ken Shipp said the opening days had delivered an exceptional response from audiences.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 has delivered an extraordinary opening three days, highlighted by the Socceroos’ magnificent victory in their opening match. The response from Australians has been exceptional, with audience numbers reflecting the excitement, passion and national pride that only a FIFA World Cup can inspire.
“Australians have embraced both this historic tournament and the Socceroos’ journey, and that journey is only just beginning. As the biggest FIFA World Cup in history, this tournament promises unforgettable moments, dramatic storylines and world-class football on a scale never seen before.
“SBS is proud to bring Australians every chapter of what is shaping up to be a truly memorable FIFA World Cup,” said Shipp.
From Mediaweek