M6 records best opening-match audience since 2014 despite criticism

M6 recorded 4.9 million viewers Thursday evening for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa (2-0), its best audience on a summer opening match since 2014, despite sharp criticism directed at its broadcast hosted by Ophélie Meunier.

The channel, which spent nearly 130 million euros two years ago to acquire the World Cup broadcasting rights, announced Friday morning a “record start”. In total, 13.3 million French viewers watched the opening evening on M6, making the channel the “clear leader across all demographics” for this first night of competition.

Detailed audience shares confirm M6’s dominance: 29% among the general public, 50% among 25-49 year-olds and 64% among 15-34 year-olds. The channel also claims “the highest audience share among those under fifty since 2010”.

These results come as numerous criticisms emerged on social media against the competition’s presentation magazine. While these controversies did not impact the opening-match figures, their potential impact on viewership throughout the tournament remains to be seen.

M6 will broadcast 54 of the 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup, including all matches of the France national team.