For the second year in a row, the Super Bowl has broken its all-time viewership record, solidifying its status as one of the most-watched events in the world.
Fox Sports reported an average audience of 126 million across its platforms for the Philadelphia Eagles’ dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. This marks an increase from last year’s 123.7 million viewers on CBS and streaming platforms, proving the game’s enduring appeal even in an era of cord-cutting.
The audience peaked at 135.7 million during the second quarter, underscoring the event’s unparalleled reach and appeal to advertisers.
Fox’s viewership numbers included streaming figures from Tubi and the NFL’s digital platforms, with 14.5 million viewers tuning in online, a significant jump from previous years. Tubi alone accounted for 13.6 million viewers, highlighting the growing popularity of free digital access.
However, traditional TV remains the dominant platform for Super Bowl viewership. Despite the rise of streaming, most fans still relied on cable or satellite to watch the game unfold in real time.
Unlike last year’s dramatic overtime thriller, this year’s Super Bowl was largely decided by halftime, with the Eagles taking a commanding 24-0 lead. While the second half lacked suspense, it didn’t deter viewers. The star-studded commercials, an electrifying halftime show, and high-profile appearances kept audiences glued to their screens, proving that the Super Bowl is as much about entertainment as football.
This year’s Super Bowl was packed with off-field drama and star power. Former President Donald Trump made history as the first sitting president to attend the event, adding a political twist to the spectacle. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift’s relationship with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce remained a major subplot, further boosting viewership. Swift’s presence has already driven significant NFL viewership gains this season, and the Super Bowl was no exception.
The halftime show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar, drew 131.2 million viewers, showcasing the event’s ability to blend sports and entertainment seamlessly.
With three consecutive years of 100+ million viewers, the Super Bowl remains an unrivalled ratings powerhouse. Advertisers paid up to $8 million per 30-second spot, and given the record-breaking viewership, they likely received a strong return on investment.
Next year’s Super Bowl will air on NBC/Peacock, followed by ABC/ESPN+ in 2027 and CBS in 2028. If current trends continue, expect even larger audiences, especially if the game delivers a close and thrilling contest.
