BBC faces scheduling storm as England World Cup clash clashes with Wimbledon

England's round-of-32 World Cup match against DR Congo on Wednesday at 5pm coincides with prime-time Wimbledon action on the BBC, sparking confusion among viewers over which event the broadcaster would prioritise. The BBC, which has the rights to the match after ITV secured two of England's group-stage games, faced questions after television guides initially listed only Wimbledon on the main channels. One viewer, posting as @WelsbyElton on X, said: "I sincerely hope I'm wrong here but as far as I can see England vs DR Congo on Wednesday at 5pm is on BBC iPlayer. The two main channels are showing Wimbledon. It's not ITV's turn to show England. Surely they must alter the schedules. If not it is scandalous." The BBC quickly responded: "Happy to reassure you that this game - and all Round of 32 BBC matches - can be watched on BBC One and/or BBC iPlayer." The mix-up appeared to stem from schedules not yet having been updated on Monday morning. The scheduling dilemma comes at a crucial time for the BBC, which has been urged by the All England Club to enhance its Wimbledon coverage or risk losing the broadcasting rights to tennis's most prestigious tournament. Wednesday's Wimbledon schedule is yet to be confirmed as it comprises second-round matches, allowing for reshuffling. The Championships began on Monday and run for a fortnight. Meanwhile, other round-of-32 fixtures continue, with Norway facing Ivory Coast. Norway manager Ståle Solbakken is expected to make wholesale changes once again as big-hitters return for the clash.