Get ready for the ultimate crossover event that’s got fans buzzing—and it’s not just on the soccer field. Imagine Ted Lasso’s fourth season dropping right in the middle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Yes, you heard that right. The beloved sitcom about an American football coach turned soccer manager might just time its return to coincide with the biggest sporting event on the planet, and it’s happening on Ted’s home turf—the United States. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the show’s most genius move yet, or a risky gamble that overshadows its own charm? Let’s dive in.
Since joining ScreenRant in January 2025, Guy has quickly risen to become a Senior Features Writer, specializing in classic TV shows. With years of experience in TV, film, and music journalism, he’s no stranger to dissecting genres from comedies to political thrillers. Now, he’s turning his attention to the timing of Ted Lasso Season 4, which is shaping up to be the show’s funniest—and most strategic—joke yet.
The anticipation for Ted Lasso Season 4 is palpable, with AppleTV+ teasing a mid-2026 release. Coincidentally (or perhaps not), this aligns perfectly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, kicking off on June 11, 2026, with the U.S. hosting a significant portion of the games, including the final at MetLife Stadium. If Jason Sudeikis has any say in the matter, this timing isn’t just a happy accident—it’s a golden opportunity to intertwine the show’s humor with the global soccer frenzy.
But here’s the part most people miss: This isn’t just about airing during the World Cup; it’s about leveraging the event to create a cultural moment. Warner Bros. TV chair Channing Dungey confirmed the show’s release window as “sometime from Q2 forward” in 2026, which eerily mirrors the World Cup’s schedule. Could this be the sitcom’s way of scoring its biggest laugh yet? Imagine Ted’s antics playing out as the world’s attention is already on soccer—it’s a recipe for viral gold.
Spring 2026 seems like the sweet spot for the show’s return. Filming began in the summer of 2025, and with post-production underway, a late spring release feels inevitable. Plus, releasing during the height of summer is a no-go for any major series, and aligning with the World Cup’s opening week could be the perfect strategy. Think about it: a Ted Lasso finale just as the World Cup kicks off? That’s not just smart—it’s genius.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing: There’s a strong possibility that Season 4 could be the show’s last. If that’s the case, a World Cup-themed finale would be the perfect send-off. Ted returning to the U.S. for the tournament? It’s a full-circle moment that ties the show’s journey to the global event. Even though Apple TV+ doesn’t have broadcasting rights for the World Cup, this connection could be a clever way to join the conversation.
But let’s pause for a moment—is this synergy too calculated? Could it risk overshadowing the show’s heartfelt humor with a marketing-driven move? Or is it a brilliant way to give fans one last memorable season? That’s the debate we’re leaving to you. What do you think? Is this the perfect timing, or is the show biting off more than it can chew? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears.
One thing’s for sure: whether you’re a soccer fanatic or a Ted Lasso superfan, 2026 is shaping up to be a year to remember. And no matter how Jason Sudeikis incorporates the World Cup into the show, it’s bound to be one of Ted’s most unforgettable adventures yet. So, mark your calendars, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a season that’s as strategic as it is hilarious.
