Alexi Lalas shocked World Cup viewers on Thursday when he used a British slang insult while talking about James Corden during Fox Sports’ live coverage. The comment came during the build-up to Canada vs Bosnia and immediately left fellow panelists Rebecca Lowe, Thierry Henry, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic surprised on air. The moment quickly spread across social media, becoming one of the biggest talking points from the opening days of the FIFA World Cup.
How It Happened
The incident occurred when Lowe introduced a discussion about Corden’s new Fox late-night World Cup show, After Hours. While speaking about a segment in which Corden wore a full Team USA training outfit, Lalas joked: “Oh! What do you guys call them? Full kit w****r right?” The remark was met with stunned reactions from the studio panel. Lowe quickly responded, “Okay… lucky we’re on American television, because the W word on British TV…” before moving the conversation forward.
Social Media Frenzy
The clip soon gained attention online as fans reacted to the unexpected exchange. Lalas, who earned 96 caps for the United States and is one of Fox Sports’ lead soccer analysts, has often made headlines for his outspoken views during major tournaments.
The phrase used by Lalas is a British slang term aimed at people who wear a full soccer kit despite not playing. His comment appeared to reference a segment from the first episode of Corden’s new show, where the British host visited the United States men’s national team training camp while dressed in full Team USA gear.
Fox’s World Cup Ratings
Fox’s World Cup coverage has already attracted huge audiences. According to Fox Sports, the opening match between Mexico and South Africa peaked at 6.3 million viewers, making it the most-watched men’s World Cup opening game and non-USMNT group-stage telecast in network history.
Lalas’s History of Controversy
The viral moment also brought renewed attention to both men. Lalas has frequently sparked debate throughout his broadcasting career. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he drew criticism after wearing a traditional Arab thobe during a live segment. He has also regularly criticized the US men’s national team.
Corden has faced controversies of his own. In 2022, New York restaurant owner Keith McNally publicly criticized him following an incident at Balthazar restaurant. Corden later apologized. After leaving The Late Late Show in 2023, he returned to American television this summer to host After Hours, with Mila Kunis appearing as the show’s first guest.
