Get ready for lift-off! The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, and both the BBC and ITV have unveiled their star-studded broadcast teams. This is a dream lineup that will have football fans of all ages on the edge of their seats – with a healthy dose of old-school expertise and fresh talent mixed in.
Olivier Giroud, the irrepressible French striker who lit up the Premier League with his goalscoring prowess for Arsenal and Chelsea, is joining forces with the BBC. A World Cup winner in 2018, he's got the trophy to prove it – and a wealth of experience that will bring a unique perspective to the BBC's coverage.
On ITV, Juan Mata – the silky-smooth Spanish playmaker who conquered the Champions League with Chelsea – is set to shine. His clever vision on the pitch was matched only by his thoughtful approach off it – and we can't wait to see him share that expertise with viewers.
Beyond these household names, both networks will bring their A-game to the tournament, with a crack team of presenters, pundits, and commentators ready to guide you through every moment of the expanded 104-match extravaganza. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard aficionado, there's something for everyone – from in-depth analysis to lively debates and expert commentary that'll keep you on the edge of your seat.
The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the biggest tournaments in history – co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. With a bigger stage comes an even greater demand for world-class coverage, but the BBC and ITV are more than up to the challenge. By recruiting the likes of Giroud and Mata, they're sending out a clear message: this is going to be a tournament like no other – and we can't wait to see what's in store.
Source: BBC, ITV