As 2025 draws to a close and excitement builds for the new year, the global TV market is gearing up for a noticeable lift, thanks largely to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to the latest forecast from industry research firm Omdia, worldwide TV set shipments are expected to surpass 210 million units in 2026 - marking roughly a 1% year-on-year increase. While that growth may sound modest, the tournament's promotional push is the main catalyst helping to offset some significant headwinds elsewhere in the industry.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 23rd edition of the tournament, will be jointly hosted across North America by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This is a big deal for football fans everywhere, and many are expected to upgrade their home viewing setups to enjoy the action in better quality. Larger screens, sharper resolutions, and advanced display technologies like Mini LED backlighting and high-performance LCD panels are becoming increasingly popular choices for consumers looking to immerse themselves in every goal, tackle, and celebration.
Omdia points out that the World Cup effect will be especially strong in the host region. North America is projected to lead in total volume, with shipments exceeding 50 million units and growing about 2.2% compared to the previous year. Hosting the games right in consumers' backyards is likely to drive demand for premium LCD TVs with bigger sizes and better picture performance.
Europe is also set to shine brightly, posting the highest growth rates across the board. Western Europe is forecast to see TV shipments rise by 3.2%, while Eastern Europe is close behind at 3.1%. Fans in these markets are known for their passion for international football, and the combination of special World Cup promotions and seasonal deals should encourage plenty of upgrades to modern LCD and emerging premium display technologies.
Meanwhile, China - typically one of the largest markets - is facing a tougher road ahead. Omdia expects shipments there to drop around 4.7% in 2026, as the boost from earlier government subsidies fades and concerns grow over rising component costs, including memory prices that affect LCD panel production. Even so, China is still anticipated to rank as the third-largest market globally, with over 30 million units shipped.
Looking at the bigger picture, the World Cup is providing just enough momentum to keep the overall TV industry moving forward in 2026, despite challenges like softer demand in key regions and ongoing supply-chain pressures in the LCD segment. Omdia also notes that technologies such as Mini LED (expected to grow nearly 17% in 2026) will continue gaining traction, offering brighter, higher-contrast pictures that are perfect for live sports viewing.
In short, if you're a football fan thinking about upgrading your living room setup for next summer's big tournament, 2026 could be the perfect time - and the industry is betting that millions of others will feel the same way.
