Larry Atkins, a Cheltenham High School graduate, Elkins Park native, and a professor of journalism and social and ethical issues in sports at Arcadia University, recently shared insights with Forbes regarding FOX One’s usage of the FIFA Men’s World Cup to connect with younger viewers.

FOX One is a direct-to-consumer streaming service that launched in August 2025. It includes access to FOX Sports, FS1, FS2 and the Big Ten Network.

“This is FOX’s way to use a major sporting event to drive an increase in its streaming subscriptions, not just during the World Cup, but afterward,” Atkins told Forbes. “The World Cup is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world, and it tends to get very good viewership in the United States. Since younger people tend to like soccer and tend to use streaming services, FOX’s approach seems like a good idea.”

The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup runs today through July 19 in Mexico, Canada, and the United States. According to CBS News, its 48 national teams mark the first time the tournament will use an expanded field. The previous 32-team format had been in place since 1998.

It’s also the first time three nations are playing host, CBS News said. More details about Philadelphia’s participation here.

In August 2024, Atkins had an article published by U.S. News & World Report titled “The New Olympic Sport That’s Spinning Heads – Literally”. He also published “Foul or Fair? Ethical and Social Issues in Sports” earlier that year.

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Photo: Arcadia University