Originally published: Australian Leisure Management, 21 July 2026
Australia’s record interest in the 2026 FIFA World Cup may leave a legacy extending well beyond television audiences, with new research suggesting the tournament has created an opportunity to improve physical activity, mental wellbeing and community connection through greater participation in sport.
According to SBS, more than 16 million Australians tuned in to watch the tournament, while research commissioned by sports equipment retailer Net World Sports found 93.4% of people who watch or participate in sport report at least one positive wellbeing benefit.
Net World Sports commissioned an independent survey company, Pureprofile, to survey 1,004 Australians to find out in which ways watching and playing sport impacts the social, emotional and mental wellbeing of adults.
The survey was held and analysed in June 2025 and was conducted in line with the nationally representative percentage targets for age, gender and location (state).
