BBC and ITV Secure Free-to-Air Rights for FIFA World Cups 2026 and 2030: A Game-Changing Partnership
In a landmark agreement, BBC Sport and ITV have confirmed a partnership to broadcast the FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026 and 2030. This collaboration ensures that football fans across the UK will continue to enjoy free-to-air coverage of the world’s most prestigious football tournament. The two broadcasters will equally share live coverage of both tournaments, including highlights, exclusive content, and the much-anticipated final matches.
World Cup 2026: The Largest Tournament Yet
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be the biggest and most exciting edition in the tournament’s history. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in 104 matches over 39 action-packed days. The competition kicks off on 11 June 2026 in Mexico City and concludes with the final on 19 July in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
BBC and ITV will split the matches equally, ensuring comprehensive coverage for fans. The BBC’s extensive broadcast will span live TV, audio, and digital platforms, including its flagship channels, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Sport’s website and app. Live audio commentary will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra, accessible via BBC Sounds.
Meanwhile, ITV will offer live coverage on ITV1, ITV4, and its streaming service ITVX, along with highlights and exclusive digital content via ITV Sport’s social media platforms.
World Cup 2030: A Historic Celebration
The 2030 FIFA World Cup marks a special centenary edition, commemorating 100 years since the first-ever tournament in Uruguay in 1930. It will be held across three continents and six countries, offering a unique blend of cultural and footballing heritage.
Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will serve as the primary hosts, with most of the matches played in these nations. However, three opening matches will take place in South America, recognizing the tournament’s roots. Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each host one match, making this World Cup a global spectacle like never before.
A Visionary Deal
BBC Sport’s director, Alex Kay-Jelski, hailed the agreement as a milestone in sports broadcasting, emphasizing the importance of uniting audiences through football. “Securing these iconic tournaments means BBC Sport is once again bringing people together for the biggest sporting moments. The World Cup is magical, something the whole planet stops to experience, and we can’t wait to show it to audiences across all platforms,” he said.
This deal reinforces BBC Sport’s already impressive portfolio, which includes the Olympic Games, FA Cup, men’s Euro 2028, women’s Euro 2025, Women’s Super League, Wimbledon Championships, and Match of the Day.
Enhanced Access for Fans
Both broadcasters are committed to delivering immersive experiences for viewers. BBC’s coverage will feature live match broadcasts, comprehensive highlights, and expert analysis, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment. ITV will complement this with its own array of live fixtures, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content, offering diverse perspectives on the tournament.
Fans can expect an unmatched viewing experience, with both broadcasters leveraging their expertise to showcase the best of football. Whether through live TV, digital platforms, or social media, football enthusiasts will have countless ways to engage with the sport they love.