The BBC and ITV have agreed a rights-sharing arrangement for the next two editions of the men's football World Cup.
The tournament is classified a so-called 'crown jewel' event by Ofcom, meaning that the games must be awarded to one of the main free-to-air broadcasters.
Once again the BBC and ITV will split the games equally, including shared coverage of the finals in 2026 and 2030. The 2026 event takes place in the USA, Canada and Mexico with 109 matches and 48 teams, while 2030 is being staged in Spain, Portugal and Morocco.
"We are looking forward to bringing these two tournaments free-to-air across ITV and ITVX," said ITV's director of sport Niall Sloane. "The World Cup always delivers some of the most memorable, historic and exciting moments in the sporting calendar and we are pleased to display the finest footballing action to the widest possible audience."
BBC counterpart Alex Kay-Jelski said: "Securing these iconic tournaments means BBC Sport is once again bringing people together for the biggest sporting moments. The World Cup is magical, something the whole planet stops to experience, and we can't wait to show it to audiences across all platforms."
England have been drawn against Serbia, Andorra, Albania and Latvia in their qualifying group for 2026, while Wales are in a group that features Belgium, Scotland will take on Greece and Northern Ireland are up against either Germany or Italy.
Neil Wilkes
Follow us on Bluesky or on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole's Lowest Ever Sky Offer: Get Sky Essential, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £15 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends March 19, 2025
