Ted Lasso and the World Cup: A Funny Twist

Ted Lasso, the beloved sitcom, is poised to make its return for its fourth season in mid-2026. This timing is particularly intriguing as it coincides with the FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the U.S. from June 11, 2026. The World Cup, a monumental event in the soccer world, will see many of its games, including the final, played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

A Coincidental yet Strategic Timing

The show, which revolves around an American football coach who ends up coaching a soccer team in England, is set to return in the second quarter of 2026. This overlap with the World Cup presents a unique opportunity for the show to incorporate the event into its narrative, perhaps even as a punchline.

Filming and Release Schedule

Filming for the fourth season began in the summer of 2025, with the season expected to be ready by the fall of 2026. Typically, shows like Ted Lasso avoid summer releases due to lower viewership. The last season aired between March and May 2023, suggesting a similar release window for the upcoming season. However, there's speculation that the season might start later to align the finale with the World Cup's opening week.

Potential Final Season and Strategic Tie-In

There's a possibility that this season could be the last one. If so, a finale that ties in with the World Cup would be a fitting and memorable way to conclude the series. Although Apple TV+ does not have the rights to broadcast the World Cup, linking the show to the event could be a strategic move. It allows the show to capitalize on the excitement surrounding the tournament without directly covering it.