The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to become the most globally broadcast football event in history, with rights secured by media partners across hundreds of territories. The FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting deals have already been confirmed in multiple regions, including the U.S., where FOX Sports will air a record 69 matches live on network television, part of the tournament’s total of 104 games.
This comprehensive guide provides complete information about broadcasting partnerships, television channels, streaming platforms, and optimal viewing times across every major region and time zone.
List of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting Coverage and TV Channels with Worldwide Time
Table of Contents
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 venues in the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026, promises unprecedented global reach. With FIFA generating over $3.9 billion from broadcasting rights across 190+ territories, the tournament will be available on free-to-air TV, premium streaming services, and even innovative platforms like in-flight channels.
As of now, most major deals are locked, ensuring every goal from the opener at Estadio Azteca to the final at MetLife Stadium hits screens worldwide.
This FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting comprehensive guide outlines major broadcasters by region and considers time slots for the tournament’s North American schedule, primarily in EDT, CDT, MDT, and PST, with kickoffs ranging from 11 AM to 8 PM local time to accommodate global audiences.
North America Broadcasting Coverage
United States (USA)
English Language Coverage
FOX Sports holds the exclusive English-language broadcast rights for all 104 scheduled matches across the United States. This represents the sixth consecutive World Cup broadcast by FOX Sports in the United States, demonstrating their established expertise in delivering world-class tournament coverage.
Television Broadcast:
- FOX Network: 69 matches on primetime slots
- FS1 Cable Channel: 35 matches across various time slots
- Streaming: All 104 matches available on FOX One and the Fox Sports App
Coverage Details:
FOX Sports has committed over 340 hours of comprehensive programming during the tournament, which represents a significant 100-hour increase compared to their 2022 World Cup coverage.
This expanded programming includes pre-match analysis, post-match coverage, daily highlight shows, and exclusive interviews.
Spanish Language Coverage
NBCUniversal’s Telemundo network retains exclusive Spanish-language broadcasting rights for all 104 matches across the United States.
Television Broadcast:
- Telemundo: Primary Spanish-language channel for most matches
- Universo: Secondary channel carrying select matches (12 matches minimum)
- Peacock: Spanish-language streaming of all matches
Streaming Availability (English):
Multiple streaming platforms provide English-language coverage:
- Peacock Premium: All 104 matches in English and Spanish
- FuboTV: FOX and Telemundo feeds included in streaming bundles
- YouTube TV: Carries FOX, FS1, and Telemundo feeds
- Hulu + Live TV: Complete World Cup access through FOX networks
- Sling TV: Offers FOX, FS1, and Telemundo packages
US National Team Match Schedule (Confirmed):
- Match 1: Friday, June 12, 2026 – Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium)
- Match 2: Friday, June 19, 2026 – Seattle (Lumen Field)
- Match 3: Thursday, June 25, 2026 – Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium)
Canada
English Language Coverage
TSN (The Sports Network) holds the exclusive English-language broadcasting rights across Canada. This represents a major sports broadcasting coup for Canada’s primary sports network.
Television and Streaming:
- TSN Television Network: Primary broadcast channel
- CTV: Selected matches including the FIFA World Cup Final
- TSN Direct: Streaming service with complete tournament access
- FIFA+: Additional streaming platform availability
French Language Coverage
RDS (Réseau des sports) provides comprehensive French-language coverage of the tournament.
Television and Streaming:
- RDS Television: Primary French-language broadcast channel
- CTV: French-language feeds on selected matches
- RDS Direct: Streaming service exclusive to French speakers
Special Features:
As a co-host nation, Canada will enjoy extensive coverage, featuring pre-tournament analysis, interview segments, and additional programming leading up to the matches. On-demand replays of all games will be accessible through TSN Direct and RDS Direct.
Mexico
Primary Broadcasters
Televisa and TV Azteca hold the exclusive broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Cup across Mexico, both on traditional television and digital platforms.
Television Coverage:
- Televisa: Primary terrestrial and cable broadcasting
- TV Azteca: Secondary network providing additional match coverage
- Televisa.com: Official digital streaming platform
- TV Azteca Play: Official streaming service
Coverage Details:
Both broadcasters will provide local Spanish commentary, comprehensive pre-match studio analysis, post-match discussions, and exclusive interviews with Mexican national team players and coaches. Extensive shoulder programming will accompany the tournament, including documentary content about Mexican football history.
European Broadcasting Coverage
On the broadcasting side, European networks and streaming platforms play an outsized role: public broadcasters, pay-TV groups and digital services across the continent secure major rights, produce world-class live feeds, and drive peak viewership windows for key matches.
That combination of top teams and sophisticated production means Europe not only supplies many of the tournament’s headline acts but also sets the tone for global TV coverage and fan engagement during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
A total of 16 UEFA teams have qualified after the European qualification round and will join the final squad for the World Cup.
United Kingdom and Ireland
Free-to-Air Coverage
The BBC and ITV have secured an equal partnership to provide complete coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring continued free-to-air access for British and Irish audiences.
Television Coverage:
- BBC Television Channels: Live broadcasts and highlights
- BBC iPlayer: Streaming access without subscription
- ITV1 and ITV4: Primary ITV broadcast channels
- ITVX: ITV’s digital platform with streaming access
Radio Coverage:
- BBC Radio 5 Live: Live audio commentary of matches
- BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra: Additional match coverage
- BBC Sounds: Radio streaming application
Broadcast Structure:
The two networks will share rights equally, with both BBC and ITV broadcasting matches across their respective portfolios. The FIFA World Cup Final will be a shared broadcast, ensuring maximum reach across the UK audience. Both broadcasters will provide extensive pre-match and post-match analysis, with expert commentary from former professional players and coaches.
Expected Kick-Off Times (BST – British Summer Time):
- 5:00 PM BST: Early evening matches (12:00 PM USA Eastern)
- 8:00 PM BST: Peak evening slot (3:00 PM USA Eastern)
- 11:00 PM BST: Late evening matches (6:00 PM USA Eastern)
- 2:00 AM BST: Early morning matches (9:00 PM USA Eastern previous day) – Heat management slots
Germany
Free-to-Air and Premium Coverage
German public broadcasters ARD and ZDF share free-to-air coverage, while Deutsche Telekom’s MagentaTV offers premium paid coverage with enhanced features.
Television Coverage:
- ARD: Free-to-air broadcasts of selected matches
- ZDF: Free-to-air broadcasts of selected matches
- MagentaTV: Complete tournament coverage with premium features
Digital Streaming:
- Zattoo: Streaming platform for ARD/ZDF feeds
- MagentaTV App: Dedicated streaming service
Special Features:
MagentaTV provides multiple camera angles, second-screen analysis, and video-on-demand highlighting capabilities. Extensive German commentary with expert analysis from former Bundesliga players is available across all platforms.
Italy
Television Coverage
Italian broadcasters offer mixed free-to-air and premium coverage:
Providers:
- RAI: Free-to-air coverage of select key matches
- RaiPlay: Streaming platform for RAI coverage
- Sky Italia: Complete paid premium coverage with enhanced features
Digital Platforms:
Both RAI and Sky provide digital streaming across their official platforms, with VPN-accessible services for Italian expatriates worldwide.
Spain
Comprehensive Coverage
Spanish broadcasters provide extensive coverage through traditional television and digital platforms. RTVE (Spanish State Television) holds primary rights alongside commercial broadcasters.
Coverage includes: Complete Spanish commentary, extensive pre-tournament analysis, and comprehensive highlight packages across all platforms.
Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Coverage
India
Television and Streaming Coverage
India’s World Cup coverage is distributed across multiple premium platforms to maximize accessibility for the nation’s 1.4+ billion population.
Primary Broadcasters:
- Sony LIV: Primary digital streaming platform for comprehensive coverage
- Star Sports Network (Linear TV): Traditional television broadcasts
- JioHotstar: Streaming platform with complete tournament access (primary exclusive partner)
Coverage Details:
Sony LIV continues its tradition of providing expert cricket and sports analysis, extended with World Cup coverage. Star Sports Networks across their five dedicated sports channels will carry extensive match programming.
JioHotstar provides the most accessible option for Indian audiences, with streaming available across smartphones, tablets, and connected TVs.
Broadcast Commentary:
Hindi, English, and regional language commentary options will be available across different platforms, ensuring accessibility for India’s diverse population.
Japan
Television and Digital Coverage
Japanese audiences can access comprehensive World Cup coverage through public and commercial broadcasters:
Primary Broadcasters:
- NHK: Japan’s national public broadcaster providing free-to-air coverage
- NHK+: Official streaming platform
- Commercial Japanese Broadcasters: Additional match coverage
Regional Language Support:
Japanese commentary will be provided across all platforms, with expert analysis from former Japanese international players.
South Korea
Comprehensive Korean Coverage
South Korea’s strong football culture ensures extensive broadcast coverage:
Primary Broadcasters:
- Korean Broadcasting Service (KBS)
- Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS)
- Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC)
- Streaming platforms: Multiple Korean digital services
Special Features: Extensive pre-tournament coverage focusing on South Korea’s World Cup campaign, with expert analysis of the Korean national team’s prospects.
Australia
Free-to-Air and Streaming Coverage
Australia provides comprehensive free-to-air coverage of all 104 matches, a rare privilege for a non-host nation.
Television Coverage:
- SBS Television: Exclusive free-to-air broadcast partner
- SBS VICELAND: Secondary channel for additional matches
- SBS On Demand: Digital streaming platform
Coverage Details:
SBS will provide comprehensive highlight packages including 30-minute full-match recaps, 12-minute match summaries, and 3-minute highlight reels for all 104 matches. All matches involving the Socceroos (Australian national team) will receive premium placement on television.
Radio Coverage:
- SEN (Sports Entertainment Network): Nationwide radio broadcasts across SEN’s suite of stations
- SEN App: Radio streaming platform
Streaming Exclusive Content:
- Paramount Australia (Network 10): Exclusive partnership with Football Australia for Socceroos matches (non-World Cup matches)
- Paramount+: Streaming platform for Australian football content
New Zealand
Free-to-Air and Premium Coverage
New Zealand marks a significant broadcasting shift, with TVNZ becoming the primary World Cup broadcaster for the first time.
Television Coverage:
- TVNZ (Free-to-Air): All matches involving the All Whites (New Zealand national team)
- TVNZ+: Premium streaming service with complete tournament access
- DUKE Channel: Secondary broadcast channel
Digital Availability:
- TVNZ+: Paid event pass required for complete tournament access
- FIFA+: Additional streaming platform
Historic Shift:
This marks the first time TVNZ has charged fees for streaming content, introducing a new paid tier for New Zealand sports fans. However, all New Zealand national team matches remain available free-to-air on television.
Southeast Asia (Regional Coverage)
BeIN SPORTS Coverage
BeIN SPORTS holds exclusive rights across Southeast Asian nations including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Brunei.
Coverage:
- BeIN SPORTS Television: Primary broadcast channel
- BeIN Connect: Official streaming platform
- Multilingual Commentary: Arabic, English, and regional language options
Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
BeIN SPORTS Exclusive Coverage
BeIN SPORTS holds exclusive broadcasting rights across the entire MENA region, covering 23 countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Coverage Details:
Countries Covered:
Algeria, Bahrain, Chad, Djibouti, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, UAE, Yemen
Broadcast Platforms:
- BeIN SPORTS Television: Primary broadcast channel across MENA
- BeIN Sports+ (Regional Tier): Premium streaming service
- BeIN Connect: Official digital platform
Commentary Options:
- Arabic Commentary: Primary language commentary across MENA
- English Commentary: Alternative option for English-speaking audiences
- Simultaneous Broadcasting: Multiple matches broadcast across BeIN’s channel bouquet
Special Features:
Dedicated Arabic studio programming with former international players providing expert analysis, pre-match preparation shows, and post-match tactical breakdowns.
Latin America (Non-Host Countries)
Comprehensive Coverage
Latin American countries receive extensive World Cup coverage through regional broadcasters:
Primary Regional Broadcasters:
- ESPN Latin America: Primary broadcaster across Spanish-speaking nations
- DirecTV Sports: Cable television coverage
- Star+ (Disney+): Streaming availability
- Local National Broadcasters: Additional country-specific coverage
Coverage Details:
Complete Spanish commentary, extensive cultural programming focusing on South American teams (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, Ecuador), and comprehensive pre-tournament analysis.
Africa Continental Broadcasting TV Coverage
BeIN SPORTS and Regional Partnerships
African broadcasting coverage varies by region, with partnerships between FIFA and regional broadcasters:
Sub-Saharan Africa (SuperSport Territory):
- SuperSport Channels: Primary broadcaster across Southern and East Africa
- DStv: Digital television platform
- SuperSport App: Streaming availability
North African Coverage:
- BeIN SPORTS: Primary broadcaster in North African nations
- National Public Broadcasters: Country-specific additional coverage
FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting and Live TV Streaming Platform: FIFA+
Worldwide Coverage
FIFA+ provides global streaming coverage across 200+ territories, offering a backup or primary option in regions without traditional broadcast agreements.
FIFA+ Coverage:
- All 104 Matches: Complete tournament access
- Multiple Languages: Commentary in 20+ languages
- Highlights and Analysis: Extended programming
- Mobile and Web Access: Full platform availability
Regional Availability:
Available in virtually every country where football is played, with special focus on emerging football markets lacking traditional broadcast infrastructure.
Time Zone and Kick-Off Time Strategy
North American Time Zones
Time Zone Breakdown:
- Eastern Standard Time (EST): UTC-5 (Cities: New York, Boston, Miami, Atlanta, Philadelphia)
- Central Standard Time (CST): UTC-6 (Cities: Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Mexico City)
- Mountain Standard Time (MST): UTC-7 (Cities: Denver area)
- Pacific Standard Time (PST): UTC-8 (Cities: Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver)
Typical Match Schedule (Local North American Times)
Morning Kick-offs: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Local Time
- Suited for: European broadcast markets (Evening/Night)
- Challenge: Peak summer heat in outdoor venues
- Solution: Air-conditioned stadiums utilized (Atlanta, Dallas)
Afternoon Kick-offs: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Local Time
- Suited for: Asian broadcaster morning hours
- Challenge: Extreme heat concerns during summer
- Solution: Limited to enclosed venues with climate control
Evening Kick-offs: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Local Time
- Suited for: Optimal weather conditions, prime European television
- Benefit: Balance between heat management and global broadcast scheduling
Late Evening Kick-offs: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM Local Time
- Suited for: West Coast US audiences, evening European viewers
- Challenge: Very late nights for UK audiences (midnight to 3:00 AM)
Very Late Night Kick-offs: Post 11:00 PM Local Time
- Suited for: Managing extreme summer heat (limited use)
- Challenge: 2:00 AM – 5:00 AM UK time viewing
- Consideration: FIFA may limit these to 2-3 matches to prevent broadcaster and fan fatigue
FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting Coverage – International Time Conversions
12:00 PM EST Match:
- Europe (GMT): 5:00 PM
- India (IST): 10:30 PM
- Australia (AEST): 4:00 AM next day
- Japan: 2:00 AM next day
3:00 PM CST Match:
- Europe (GMT): 9:00 PM
- India (IST): 2:30 AM next day
- Australia (AEST): 8:00 AM next day
- Japan: 6:00 AM next day
8:00 PM PST Match:
- Europe (GMT): 4:00 AM next day
- India (IST): 9:30 AM next day
- Australia (AEST): 5:00 PM next day
- Japan: 3:00 PM next day
Strategic Broadcasting Considerations
Heat Management Strategy
FIFA has confirmed that kick-off times will be adjusted to manage the extreme North American summer heat, learning from challenges experienced at the 2025 Club World Cup.
Heat-Related Adjustments:
- Outdoor Venues: Evening/night kick-offs prioritized
- Enclosed Stadiums: Morning/afternoon slots permitted (Atlanta Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Dallas AT&T Stadium, Houston NRG Stadium)
- Very Late Slots: Reserved for heat management, with minimal late-night matches
FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting Coverage of European Broadcaster Priorities
European broadcasters have emphasized the importance of accommodating evening prime-time slots. FIFA balances this demand with North American comfort and safety concerns.
Typical European Compromise:
- 5:00 PM BST (UK evening): Matches at 12:00 PM US Eastern
- 8:00 PM BST (UK primetime): Matches at 3:00 PM US time
- 11:00 PM BST (late night): Matches at 6:00 PM US time
Asian Broadcast Windows
Asian markets receive early morning broadcasts, with India and Japan accommodating late-night/early morning viewing windows.
Typical Asian Slots:
- 10:30 PM India time: During 12:00 PM EST matches
- 2:30 AM India time: During 3:00 PM CST matches
- 9:30 AM India time: During 8:00 PM PST matches
Complete Broadcast Availability by Region: Quick Reference
| Region | Primary Broadcaster(s) | Streaming Platform(s) | Free-to-Air Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | FOX Sports, Telemundo | Peacock, FOX One, Fox Sports App | FOX Network (selected) |
| Canada | TSN, RDS, CTV | TSN Direct, RDS Direct | CTV, TSN (select matches) |
| Mexico | Televisa, TV Azteca | Televisa.com, TV Azteca Play | Televisa, TV Azteca |
| UK/Ireland | BBC, ITV | BBC iPlayer, ITVX | BBC1, ITV1, ITV4 |
| Germany | ARD, ZDF | Various | ARD, ZDF |
| Italy | Sky Italia, RAI | RaiPlay, Sky Go | RAI (select matches) |
| India | JioHotstar, Sony LIV | JioHotstar, Sony LIV | Star Sports (limited) |
| Japan | NHK | NHK+ | NHK Television |
| Australia | SBS | SBS On Demand | SBS, SBS VICELAND |
| New Zealand | TVNZ | TVNZ+ (paid tier) | TVNZ (NZ team matches) |
| MENA | BeIN SPORTS | BeIN Connect | BeIN SPORTS (select) |
| Worldwide | FIFA+ | FIFA+ | Limited |
FIFA World Cup 2026 Global Broadcasting Coverage Global Viewing Guide
The FIFA World Cup 2026 offers an incredible broadcasting reach, covering over 200 territories to ensure everyone can tune in. Whether you’re in North America, Europe, Asia, or elsewhere, there are plenty of ways to catch all 104 matches.
Key Takeaways:
- North America: FOX and Telemundo provide comprehensive English and Spanish coverage
- Europe: Free-to-air access guaranteed through BBC/ITV partnerships
- Asia-Pacific: Diverse platform options from premium to budget-friendly
- Global: FIFA+ provides universal fallback coverage
The full broadcast schedule, including specific kick-off times, will be announced after the FIFA World Cup Draw on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
This FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule is designed to maximise viewership across time zones, address the summer heat in North American venues, and ensure accessibility for international broadcasts.
Football’s greatest tournament will be available to billions of fans across the globe, creating unprecedented global television history.
