FOX SPORTS AND INDEED PAY TWO FANS $50,000 TO WATCH WORLD CUP

Fox Sports and Indeed have hired Austin Franklin and Kevin Akoto to watch all 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup from a custom-built glass box in Times Square as part of a marketing campaign. Each selected candidate will receive $50,000 for the role, which forms part of FOX One's "Chief World Cup Watchers" team. The positions were filled following applications from thousands of hopeful candidates. The initiative has generated significant discussion on social media regarding the nature of the employment.

The World Cup campaign represents a partnership between the sports broadcaster and the job search platform Indeed. Applicants underwent a selection process to secure one of the two positions, which require monitoring every match of the tournament across the summer. FOX One confirmed the selections through an Instagram post thanking applicants for their participation. The glass box location in Times Square has attracted public attention, with onlookers gathering to observe the watchers during matches.

Social media responses to the arrangement have been divided. Some users have highlighted the financial benefit of converting a leisure activity into paid employment, whilst others have questioned whether the prolonged viewing of consecutive matches constitutes sustainable working conditions. Critics have cited factors including extended match durations, defensive playing styles, and the mental fatigue associated with continuous observation. The campaign has prompted broader discussion about unconventional employment opportunities within sports marketing.