The 2026 World Cup is set to take place in the USA, Mexico and Canada later this year and England supporters can now get access to matches completely for free on YouTube
The World Cup takes place in the USA, Canada and Mexico this summer(Image: Getty Images)
England supporters could potentially be able to watch the Three Lions in World Cup action on YouTube next summer. FIFA have already confirmed that the video sharing platform has been appointed as one of their preferred platforms for this summer’s tournament.
And that has seen the governing body tell rights holders that they will be allowed to show five full matches on YouTube, with the opening 10 minutes of every game also able to be shared.
As per The Times, The BBC and ITV are giving serious consideration to the idea. They will then have to agree which of their live games they want to show in full, with the final approval laying with FIFA.
It is also suggested that the UK broadcasters could even apply to stream the final in full live via their respective YouTube accounts. The plan comes after FIFA struck a deal with YouTube, with the intention to reach younger fans by sharing match action on the platform.
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“FIFA is delighted to welcome YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026. By spotlighting FIFA’s premium content and unlocking new opportunities for Media Partners and creators, this agreement will engage global fans in ways never seen before,” said FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström after an announcement last week.
“As the world ’s attention turns to the action in Canada, Mexico and the United States, this collaboration with YouTube reinforces our ambition to maximise the tournament’s impact across the ever-evolving media landscape, offering fans everywhere easy access to an immersive view of the biggest single-sport event in history.”
YouTube vice president and Global Head of Media & Sports, Justin Connolly, added: “YouTube is focused on delivering a global, fan-centric, interactive approach to sports entertainment, and we are proud to be a preferred platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“By providing official media partners and creators with premium content and unparalleled access, we’re delivering a comprehensive experience for fans and partners alike. Whether you’re a hardcore or a casual fan, this partnership will help usher in the next generation of fans while showcasing that no other platform unites the world around major moments like YouTube.”
ITV and the BBC are due to split the coverage of the World Cup. The former will show 34 group-stage matches including England’s clashes with Croatia and Panama.
The BBC in the meantime will have 38 group games and have the first pick of the round of 32 and 16 games, while ITV get priority when it comes to the quarter finals.
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England’s 2026 World Cup kits
England and Nike have launched the new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. You can get free delivery on all orders with the code: ENGFREEDEL
