England v DR Congo drives biggest mobile traffic event ever on O2

England’s dramatic Round of 32 victory over DR Congo in the 2026 FIFA World Cup didn’t just push our nerves to the limit – it also pushed the UK’s mobile infrastructure to its limit too. 

Network provider O2 confirmed that the match, which saw captain Harry Kane seal a 2-1 comeback win, triggered the highest mobile traffic event in the company’s history.

As fans balanced the evening commute with the 5pm kick-off, the demand for mobile data surged, peaking at a level 20.38% higher than the previous record set during the Arsenal vs PSG UEFA Champions League Final.

Compared to a typical pre-tournament weekday, overall mobile traffic was up 27.67%. The surge was driven heavily by streaming, with BBC iPlayer usage spiking 380% as supporters tuned in from trains, buses, and offices.

O2’s data also offered a fascinating look at fan psychology. Activity across social and lifestyle apps such as TikTok, WhatsApp and Tinder increased notably after DR Congo took an early lead through Brian Cipenga.

Analysts suggest this activity represented fans seeking distractions during a tense first half. However, as England rallied in the second half, app usage dipped as supporters became glued to Kane’s eventual match-winning performance.

“Live sport is one of the biggest drivers of mobile traffic in the UK,” says Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2.

“With millions of fans following the match during the evening commute, reliable mobile connectivity has never been more important. As more people stream, second-screen and share the biggest sporting moments wherever they are, we’re investing £700m as part of our Mobile Transformation Plan to ensure customers stay connected when demand is at its highest.”

The victory sends England through to a high-stakes Round of 16 clash against Mexico, with fans now looking toward a 1am BST kick-off in Mexico City on July 6.

Following the massive data strain observed yesterday, mobile providers are likely bracing for similarly high traffic during the upcoming knockout rounds.