Football fans sound off on FOX Sports’ World Cup show After Hours with James Corden

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Football fans reacted furiously after FOX Sports announced a new FIFA World Cup late-night show hosted by James Corden alongside Rio Ferdinand and Ian Karmel.

The backlash was not just about one promo. It reflected a wider frustration with how many soccer fans believe FOX packages major tournaments for a casual American audience.

That made the announcement feel like a flashpoint. Instead of excitement for more World Cup programming, the immediate response centered on Corden, the tone of the show, and FOX’s broader coverage choices.

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FOX Sports introduces World Cup show featuring James Corden, Rio Ferdinand, and Ian Karmel

As FOX Sports on X announced, FIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden will air at midnight on FOX starting June 11.

“The matches end. The show begins. ‘FIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden’ — with Rio Ferdinand & Ian Karmel, midnights on FOX starting June 11,” they tweeted.

The show is being positioned as a late-night companion to the tournament, with Corden leading a lighter recap format after the day’s matches.

Rio Ferdinand gives the lineup real soccer credibility, while Ian Karmel adds another comedy voice. But the combination did not calm skeptical fans.

For many, the concern is that a World Cup show built around late-night comedy could lean too far into celebrity, bits, and broad entertainment instead of meaningful football conversation.