The 2026 World Cup is the biggest in history, with 48 teams and 104 matches across three host nations, and for UK viewers, the BBC is your primary destination to watch the action. Here's everything you need to know about the tournament, the broadcast schedule, and how to follow England's campaign.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first time three countries have co-hosted the tournament. It's also the first men's World Cup to feature 48 teams, up from 32 in previous editions. The expanded format means more matches and a longer tournament, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026. In the UK, the BBC is broadcasting 54 live matches, including the final on July 19, with every match available via BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport website and app. Matches are also available on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
“How to watch the 2026 World Cup in the UK, including England vs Ghana, BBC coverage, and the expanded 48-team format.”
The decision to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams was made by FIFA in 2017, aimed at increasing global representation and giving more nations a chance to compete on the biggest stage. The new format splits the teams into 16 groups of three, with the top two from each group advancing to a round of 32. This replaces the traditional 8 groups of four. Critics have warned the change could dilute quality and increase fixture congestion, but supporters argue it grows the game worldwide. For UK broadcasters, the expansion means more matches to cover, and the BBC's commitment to 54 live games ensures free-to-air access to the majority of the tournament.
For UK football fans, the World Cup remains a rare event where every match is available on terrestrial television. The BBC's coverage includes build-up, expert analysis and live commentary. England's Group L campaign features a highly anticipated second group match against Ghana on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Kick-off is at 9pm BST (4pm local time) at Gillette Stadium in Boston, Massachusetts. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 8pm. UK viewers can also stream the game for free via BBC iPlayer or the BBC Sport website, provided they have a valid TV licence. Radio commentary is available on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 5 Live. For fans in the US, the match airs on FOX and Telemundo.
Q: How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup? The tournament features 48 teams for the first time, up from 32. They are divided into 16 groups of three, with the top two from each group advancing to a knockout phase of 32 teams.
Q: When is the 2026 World Cup final and where can I watch it in the UK? The final is on Sunday, July 19, 2026. In the UK, it will be shown live on the BBC. The BBC is broadcasting 54 live matches overall, including the final.
Q: How can I watch England vs Ghana at the World Cup? England's second group match against Ghana kicks off at 9pm BST on Tuesday, June 23 at Gillette Stadium in Boston. It will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 8pm. You can also stream it on BBC iPlayer or via the BBC Sport website and app.
With the tournament still in its group stage, the immediate focus is on England's progress and whether the expanded format produces surprises. The knockout rounds begin in late June, and the final is set for July 19. The BBC will provide live coverage of all key matches, with full schedules available on the BBC Sport website.