The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be a historic event as the first tournament hosted by three nations. With 48 teams competing in 104 matches, fans across the globe are eager to catch every moment of the action. For viewers in the United States, understanding where to watch the games is essential.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the TV channels, streaming platforms, and additional options available to ensure you don’t miss a single goal, save, or celebration.
Official Broadcast Partners for the FIFA World Cup 2026
Fox Sports and Telemundo hold the exclusive broadcasting rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Fox Sports will cover the tournament in English, while Telemundo provides Spanish-language commentary. This partnership ensures comprehensive coverage across both traditional TV and digital platforms.
Fox Sports will air matches on its primary network and FS1, with pre-game analysis, live match broadcasts, and post-game highlights. Telemundo, alongside its sister channel Universo, will deliver Spanish-language coverage, catering to one of the largest soccer-loving demographics in the country. Both networks have a long-standing relationship with FIFA, having broadcast previous World Cups, and their expertise will enhance the viewing experience with in-depth commentary and expert analysis.
Streaming the 2026 World Cup: Platforms and Services
For cord-cutters or those preferring digital access, multiple streaming services will carry live coverage of the 2026 World Cup. fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV are the primary platforms offering Fox Sports and FS1 in their channel lineups. These services provide flexibility, allowing fans to watch matches on smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs.
Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming platform, will also play a role in Spanish-language coverage, streaming select matches via Telemundo and Universo. Additionally, ViX, Telemundo’s dedicated streaming service, will offer live matches and on-demand replays, ensuring Spanish-speaking audiences have ample options.
Free trials for streaming services like fuboTV (7 days) and Hulu + Live TV (3 days) can help viewers access the tournament without immediate commitment. Subscribers should verify local availability, as regional restrictions may apply.
Spanish-Language Coverage: Telemundo and Beyond
Telemundo’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup is a cornerstone for Spanish-speaking audiences. The network will broadcast all 104 matches live, with additional content such as pre-game shows, player interviews, and cultural segments highlighting the host nations. Universo, Telemundo’s sister channel, will simulcast key matches, including the opening game and knockout stages.
For digital viewers, Telemundo’s app and website offer live streaming, while Peacock and ViX expand accessibility. ViX, in particular, serves as a hub for extended coverage, including mini-matches and behind-the-scenes content. This multi-platform approach ensures that Spanish-speaking fans can engage with the tournament across devices and preferences.
Key Matches and Schedule Highlights
The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, with Mexico hosting the opening match at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) will play its group stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, offering prime-time viewing for American audiences. The final, scheduled for July 19, 2026, will take place at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, marking a historic conclusion to the expanded tournament.
Fans can expect marquee matchups throughout the group stage, with traditional rivals and emerging teams vying for a spot in the Round of 32. The revised format, featuring 12 groups of four teams, guarantees more competitive games and unpredictable outcomes.
Additional Viewing Options
For travelers, Sport 24 will broadcast all matches on inflight and cruise ship entertainment systems, ensuring fans don’t miss games while en route. Radio coverage via BBC Sports and local affiliates will provide audio updates for those on the move.
To stay organized, downloading the Soccer TV Schedules App helps track match times and channels. The app, available on iOS and Android, sends notifications for upcoming games and highlights. Subscribers should also explore free trials for streaming services ahead of the tournament to test compatibility and internet speeds.
Preparing for the Tournament: Subscriptions and Trials
With the World Cup spanning six weeks, planning subscriptions in advance is crucial. Services like fuboTV and YouTube TV offer sports-centric packages, ideal for dedicated fans. Families or casual viewers might prefer Hulu + Live TV, which combines sports with entertainment content.
Spanish-speaking households should consider bundling Peacock with Telemundo’s app for comprehensive coverage. Meanwhile, ViX’s free tier may suffice for highlights, though premium access unlocks full matches and exclusive content.
Conclusion
The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a milestone in soccer history, uniting 48 nations across North America. With Fox Sports, Telemundo, and a variety of streaming platforms offering extensive coverage, U.S. viewers have unparalleled access to every moment. Whether tuning in via traditional TV, streaming services, or mobile apps, fans can immerse themselves in the excitement of the world’s most-watched sporting event. Mark your calendars, explore subscription options, and get ready to cheer for your favorite teams in 2026!
FAQs
1. Which networks hold the U.S. broadcast rights for the 2026 World Cup?
Fox Sports (English) and Telemundo (Spanish) hold exclusive rights. Fox will air matches on its main channel (FOX) and FS1, while Telemundo covers all games on its network, including Universo for simultaneous group-stage fixtures.
2. Can I watch the World Cup without cable?
Yes. Use a digital antenna for free over-the-air access to FOX and Telemundo. For FS1 and Universo, streaming services like FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV offer free trials covering the tournament’s duration.
3. Will streaming platforms carry the matches?
Fox streams via the FOX Sports App, and Telemundo uses Telemundo Deportes en Vivo and Peacock. Cable alternatives like FuboTV and YouTube TV include all necessary channels.
4. Why isn’t ESPN broadcasting the World Cup?
FIFA awarded rights to Fox and Telemundo without a competitive bid in 2015, partly compensating Fox for the 2022 Qatar World Cup’s winter schedule conflicting with NFL coverage.
5. What are the concerns about Fox’s coverage?
Critics highlight Fox’s no-bid extension and potential production limitations, such as remote commentary for some matches. Others praise its 4K plans and veteran analysts like Alexi Lalas.
6. Are matches available in 4K or HDR?
Fox plans 4K broadcasts for select games, while Telemundo experiments with augmented reality graphics for pre-game shows. Check provider compatibility for streaming.
7. How can international viewers in the U.S. watch?
International fans can access home-country broadcasts via services like beIN Sports (MENA) or Viacom18 (India). U.S. coverage remains exclusive to Fox/Telemundo.
8. What is the International Broadcast Center (IBC) in Dallas?
The IBC, based at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, coordinates global coverage. It will host 2,000+ media personnel and manage production logistics from January–July 2026.
9. How does Telemundo’s coverage differ from Fox’s?
Telemundo emphasizes Spanish-language commentary and cultural relevance for Hispanic audiences, with on-site reporting from all host cities. Fox focuses on broader English-speaking demographics.
10. Will the U.S. matches receive special coverage?
Yes. The U.S. Men’s National Team group-stage games in Los Angeles (June 12 and 19) and Seattle will be prominently featured. Fox and Telemundo co-hosted the 2026 schedule reveal with celebrity appearances.
