FIFA have confirmed an agreement to broadcast the start of every World Cup 2026 fixture live on YouTube. Official broadcasters will be allowed to stream the first 10 minutes of matches on the platform as part of efforts to reach younger supporters. The BBC and ITV will broadcast the tournament on free-to-air television channels in the UK. Yet under FIFA's arrangement with YouTube, broadcasters will also be able to live-stream the first 10 minutes of their allocated fixtures on the video platform.
Official broadcasters will additionally be allowed to screen a limited number of complete World Cup 2026 matches on YouTube. FIFA expects that the agreement will make the start of fixtures accessible to a broader worldwide audience, who will subsequently turn to conventional TV channels to view the remainder of the action.
The governing body is aiming at a younger viewership who may access football content via digital platforms, rather than linear TV. As part of its strategy to attract a younger demographic, FIFA will also grant a selection of content creators exclusive access throughout the World Cup.
Announcing FIFA's landmark broadcast deal, Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom said: "Fifa is delighted to welcome YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the 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.
"As the world 's attention turns to the action in Canada, Mexico and the United States, this collaboration reinforces our ambition to maximise the tournament's impact and offer fans everywhere easy access to the biggest event in sport."
The BBC and ITV will continue broadcasting matches on live television and through their respective streaming services. Nevertheless, the agreement means that a select number of fixtures will also be streamed live in their entirety on their YouTube channels.
Furthermore, FIFA's broadcast partners will be permitted to upload extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage and short clips to their YouTube platforms. YouTube itself echoed FIFA's sentiment of wanting the sport to reach a broader audience.
Justin Connolly, the platform's global head of media and sports, said: "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 World Cup 2026.
"By providing official media partners and creators with premium content and unparalleled access, we're delivering a comprehensive experience for fans. Whether you're a hardcore or casual fan, this partnership will help usher in the next generation of fans."
The tournament's opening fixture sees Mexico face South Africa on June 11. A total of 48 nations will compete across 104 matches, culminating in the final on July 19.
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