How MLB exploited World Cup fever in the US as FIFA pact revealed

MLB leveraged World Cup fever in the U.S. as FIFA’s commercial pact became a backdrop to how soccer was monetized, according to the article. It cites an estimated 1.5 billion viewers for the final in New Jersey, where Spain beat Argentina, while arguing that North American leagues are ahead in commercialization. The piece says FIFA earned billions through secondary ticketing, added “hydration breaks” to expand TV advertising, and sold high-value assets like $1m corporate hospitality suites and even turf patches. It then turns to behind-the-scenes information that MLB worked with FIFA to maximize audience benefit rather than compete. Fans at Fenway Park, including those watching Red Sox games after FIFA’s tournament, reportedly became interested in baseball; the article notes a Scottish Heritage Day on June 14 and the final shown at Yankee Stadium a month later. MLB also discussed cooperation with FIFA two years earlier to avoid season conflicts.