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Fox Urged to Rebalance World Cup Studio as Zlatan-Lalas Dynamic Draws Criticism
Fox’s World Cup studio coverage is drawing criticism for the awkward pairing of Zlatan Ibrahimović and Alexi Lalas. Critics say Ibrahimović lacks deep tactical knowledge and Lalas relies on provocative takes, while Thierry Henry and Rebecca Lowe deliver strong analysis. Fox has a month until the final to adjust its lineup.
Quick Facts
Who
Zlatan Ibrahimović
What
Fox's World Cup studio show criticised for Ibrahimović-Lalas dynamic
When
2026 FIFA World Cup
Where
Fox studio (US broadcast)
- Fox's World Cup studio show criticised for Ibrahimović-Lalas dynamic
- Henry praised for tactical analysis of Mbappé and Ronaldo
- Corden segment featured lie detector with Ibrahimović
- Lalas defends his Power Rankings segment
- Fox seeks to create premier studio show akin to its NFL and MLB pregames
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup progresses into its second month, Fox’s flagship studio coverage is facing mounting criticism for its uneven blend of star analysts, particularly the pairing of Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimović and American pundit Alexi Lalas. Critics argue that the network’s ambitious lineup—assembled to rival its NFL and MLB pregame shows—has produced more awkward moments than insightful analysis.
The network recruited proven television talents: Rebecca Lowe, the lead host of NBC’s Premier League coverage, and Thierry Henry, the former Arsenal and France striker who contributes to CBS’s Champions League broadcasts. Ibrahimović was brought in as an audacious wildcard, while Lalas remained from Fox’s 2022 World Cup studio team.
However, early reviews suggest the chemistry falls short. Observers note that Ibrahimović, despite being one of football’s greatest strikers, often relies on a “confident persona” rather than detailed tactical knowledge of teams and players. In one instance, he appeared unfamiliar with Canada coach Jesse Marsch, an American who previously managed in Major League Soccer and Europe, before expressing a desire to meet him after Fox promoted the storyline.
Lalas, known for his provocative “Hot Take” style, has also drawn criticism. During a recent pregame segment called “Alexi’s Power Rankings,” he challenged viewers: “If you don’t like them, get your own Power Rankings.” Analysts have called his broadcasting style “insufferable” and questioned his credentials compared to Ibrahimović and Henry.
In contrast, Henry has been praised for his crisp, technical breakdowns. After France’s Kylian Mbappé scored against Senegal, Henry detailed the diagonal run that created the goal. Following Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo, he criticized Cristiano Ronaldo’s movement, saying: “The team needs to score, not you need to score.” Lowe continues to anchor the show with poise.
Fox experimented with a late-night show, “After Hours with James Corden,” featuring a lie detector segment with Ibrahimović. Asked if a panel of four Zlatans would be better than the current quartet of Lowe, Henry, Lalas and himself, Ibrahimović said yes—and the lie detector agreed. The segment has been described as emblematic of the show’s missteps.
With the World Cup final set for July 19, time is running out for Fox to recalibrate. Commentators suggest the network should lean more heavily on Lowe and Henry while finding ways to showcase Ibrahimović’s goal-scoring insights rather than his bravado.
Why This Matters
For English readers, the critique of Fox's World Cup studio coverage matters because it reflects a broader challenge in sports broadcasting: balancing star power with substantive analysis. If Fox fails to adjust, it risks alienating serious soccer fans and ceding audience to alternative coverage. The outcome could influence how networks approach future international tournaments, especially given Fox's investment in creating a premier studio show. For advertisers and media analysts, the controversy signals that celebrity presence alone does not guarantee viewer engagement or credibility.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireCriticism of Fox's World Cup studio coverage surfaces in The New York Times article
Jul 19, 2026
WireWorld Cup final scheduled