BBC coverage of England getting dumped out of the World Cup broke 2026 records but fell short of other football matches in historical rankings.

Around 24m watched Argentina’s late 2-1 win in Atlanta, making the match the most-watched live television moment of the year.

The broadcast averaged 22.1m viewers on the BBC with the channel’s social media platforms attracting 75m video views on Wednesday.

But the semi-final audience fell short of other major sporting moments. Its average of 22.1m falls short of the 2012 summer Olympic Games closing ceremony – which was shown on the BBC – as well as the 1970 FA Cup final replay between Chelsea and Leeds, the 2020 European final between Italy and England; and the 1966 World Cup final against West Germany.

BBC pulls in 24m

BBC director of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, said: “Last night may not have brought the result England fans were hoping for, but it was another occasion that united millions across the UK in support of the team. Audiences came together on the BBC to witness a World Cup semi-final that captured the emotion, drama and pride that football can deliver.

“Throughout this tournament, audiences have turned to the BBC not just for the live matches, but to share in the stories, the analysis and the moments that bring the nation together. The extraordinary reach of our coverage across TV, iPlayer, BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport website, app and socials, reflects the enduring power of major sporting events to create shared experiences on a remarkable scale.”

Anthony Gordon put England ahead before two late Argentina goals saw Thomas Tuchel’s side slip to defeat in the United States.

The German has reportedly been backed to lead England into a home Euros in 2028.

Both the BBC and ITV will broadcast the final between Argentina and Spain on Sunday.