Football fans didn't hold back after FOX Sports announced its new FIFA World Cup late-night show, "After Hours with James Corden," featuring Rio Ferdinand and Ian Karmel. The backlash was swift and fierce—and it wasn't just about one promo.

For many supporters, this announcement became a flashpoint. Instead of generating excitement for more World Cup programming, it tapped into a deeper frustration with how FOX Sports packages major tournaments for a casual American audience. The reaction centered on host James Corden, the show's tone, and FOX's broader coverage choices.

FOX Sports confirmed on X that "FIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden" will air at midnight starting June 11. The network positioned it as a late-night companion to the tournament, with Corden leading a lighter recap format after each day's matches. Rio Ferdinand brings real soccer credibility to the lineup, while Ian Karmel adds another comedy voice. But that combination didn't calm skeptical fans.

The core concern? A World Cup show built around late-night comedy might lean too heavily into celebrity skits and broad entertainment, instead of delivering meaningful football conversation. The reaction was especially harsh because it arrived amid existing distrust of FOX's soccer coverage. One fan wrote bluntly: "Thanks for the advanced warning so I don't accidentally tune in to this pile of d__ s___."

Another response focused directly on the lineup: "It's not too late to cancel this. This is a truly awful lineup." The frustration kept building across the replies. One fan asked, "Jesus, you really don't want people to watch, do you?" Corden was the clear target for many of the strongest reactions. One post warned, "If Corden's there, we riot." Another fan turned the criticism toward the network: "Fox is deliberately trying to tank soccer's popularity."

While the anger may sound extreme, it reflects a passionate fanbase that wants World Cup coverage to respect the sport's global significance—not just serve as a backdrop for late-night entertainment. For those tuning in from home, the right gear can make all the difference in enjoying the tournament. Whether you're watching live or catching highlights, having comfortable fan apparel and accessories ensures you stay engaged with every match, no matter who's hosting the post-game show.