The countdown to the 2026 World Cup knockout stages is building momentum in the UK, with every match about to be broadcast live on free-to-air television for all to witness. The BBC and ITV have sealed the deal on broadcasting rights, guaranteeing that fans won't miss a single moment of drama as the tournament enters its most critical phases – and what a thrilling ride it's shaping up to be!
The Round of 32 is already delivering high-stakes showdowns, with South Africa sent packing after a 1-0 defeat to Canada, Brazil emerging victorious against Japan (2-1), and Germany crashing out in penalty heartbreak against Paraguay (losing 3-4). The Netherlands also faced the agony of a penalty shootout loss to Morocco (2-3) following a 1-1 stalemate, while France left Sweden reeling with a commanding 3-0 win.
England's quest for World Cup glory continues with a pivotal Round of 32 clash against DR Congo on Wednesday, 1st July, kick-off at 5pm BST. This mouth-watering match will be live on BBC One, the BBC Sport website, and iPlayer – don't miss it! Other blockbuster Round of 32 matches include Belgium's showdown with Senegal at 9pm BST on ITV1 and Spain's test against Austria at 8pm BST on Thursday, 2nd July, both broadcast on BBC One.
While many UK viewers will get the chance to watch in convenient evening slots (6pm and 8pm BST), some matches fall outside regular viewing hours – like the USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina game on Thursday, 2nd July, which kicks off at 1am BST on BBC One, or Portugal's clash with Croatia on Friday, 3rd July, scheduled for a midnight (12am) BST kick-off on the same channel.
As we hurtle towards the business end of the tournament, the Round of 16 matches are just around the corner – starting on Saturday, 4th July, with Canada taking on Morocco at 6pm BST and Paraguay facing France at 10pm BST. The quarter-finals follow from Thursday, 9th July, semi-finals on Tuesday, 14th and Wednesday, 15th July, building towards the Third-Place Play-off on Saturday, 18th July, and the grand Final on Sunday, 19th July – both scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off.
Scottish viewers won't miss out either, with STV and STV Player providing comprehensive coverage of ITV-broadcast matches, guaranteeing access to World Cup action across the entire UK. The free-to-air broadcast deal cements the tournament's place as one of the UK's most-watched sporting events – get ready for lift-off!