The World Cup draws a record 3.6M spectators before the group stage, surpassing the near-3.58M mark from 1994 and reflecting the larger 48-team, 104-match format.Stadium occupancy reaches roughly 99.7% and the first 60 matches produce the 3.6M total, with Ecuador’s 2-1 win over Germany at MetLife Stadium among matches that swell attendance.Hosts
Canada, the US, and
Mexico say the expanded schedule is boosting cumulative crowds even as critics cite high ticket prices and restrictive policies; final totals will be confirmed after the final in July.