The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is the biggest in history with 48 teams competing. For UK viewers, every match is available on free-to-air television or via the BBC and ITV’s digital platforms, making it easier than ever to follow the action from across the Atlantic.
The tournament sees 104 matches played across three nations, but UK broadcasters are showing a significant number live. The BBC will broadcast 54 matches live, including the final on 19 July, and will cover every single game through its website and app. BBC Sounds will carry commentary for 92 games. ITV is also showing a selection of matches, such as Scotland vs. Morocco, live on its channels and streaming service ITVX.
“How to watch the 2026 World Cup in the UK on BBC and ITV.”
The expansion from 32 to 48 teams means the group stage now features 12 groups of four, with the top two from each group plus the eight best third‑placed teams advancing to a round of 32. This new format, combined with the time difference between the UK and North America, means matches are spread across afternoon, evening and late‑night slots.
For UK audiences, the time zones are manageable: evening kick‑offs around 8pm UK time (such as USA vs. Australia), late‑night matches at 11pm (Scotland vs. Morocco) and early‑morning fixtures at 1.30am (Brazil vs. Haiti). All live TV broadcasts are on BBC One, BBC Two or ITV, with streaming available via BBC iPlayer, ITVX and the BBC Sport website.
Q: What time are the World Cup matches in the UK? Kick‑off times vary throughout the tournament. Typical group‑stage slots are 8pm, 11pm and 1.30am UK time, reflecting the US and Canadian evening windows. Later rounds may have different times.
Q: Which broadcaster shows each match? The BBC and ITV split the live coverage. For example, the BBC showed USA vs. Australia on BBC One, while ITV broadcast Scotland vs. Morocco. The BBC also has exclusive rights to the final. Check the BBC Sport website or iPlayer for the full schedule.
Q: How can I watch matches online? All BBC‑shown matches are available live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app. ITV matches can be streamed live on ITVX. Both services are free to use in the UK (with a TV licence for BBC).
What happens next: The group stage runs through late June, followed by the round of 32, round of 16, quarter‑finals and semi‑finals. The final takes place on 19 July. Full match schedules and broadcast details are updated daily on the BBC and ITV websites.