Record audiences for World Cup
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.At least 16 million "stay at home" viewers will tune into England's first World Cup game on Monday according to BBC estimates after Scotland's opening game pulled in a record audience of 14 million.
The France '98 opening game between Brazil and Scotland, which kicked off at 4.30pm, nearly tripled the average afternoon audience on the main channels. It is the largest ever rating for a World Cup opening game, overshadowing even the Euro '96 England vs Scotland match, which pulled in 11.7 million viewers.
Described by the BBC as "sensational", the unprecedented numbers tuning in bode ill for employers expecting a full turn out of staff on Monday. England's opening match against Tunisia kicks off even earlier, at 1.30pm, and BBC insiders predict at least 16 million "stay at homes" for the true beginning of World Cup fever.
Wednesday's match attracted an average of 12 million viewers at kick- off with a steady build-up to a peak of 14 million as people arrived home from work at 6pm. The actual viewing figures for the game will have been even higher as ratings statistics only include viewers watching from home, not those watching in pubs, clubs or at work.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments