The BBC and ITV are sharing live coverage of the 2026 World Cup in the UK, with every match from the US, Canada, and Mexico shown free on TV. However, the two broadcasters have adopted contrasting approaches to covering the expanded 48-team tournament.
BBC stays in Salford, ITV sets up in Brooklyn
ITV presenters Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods are anchoring coverage from a studio in Brooklyn, New York, offering views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. In contrast, the BBC has decided to remain at its Salford studio, a move that has attracted significant backlash from critics who argue the national broadcaster should be present at one of the biggest TV events of the year.
The BBC insists its new state-of-the-art immersive studio will 'transport viewers to 16 cities across three host nations.' The studio team, led by presenters Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Kelly Cates, could still travel to North America but not until the quarter-final stage at the earliest. The BBC maintains an on-the-ground presence with commentators at matches.
Financial and environmental reasons
The decision to stay in Salford is driven by financial and environmental considerations. Covering an expanded 48-team tournament across three countries significantly increases costs and logistical challenges. Remaining at the BBC Sport base in Salford also reduces air travel, aligning with the corporation's efforts to cut its carbon footprint.
The BBC's punditry lineup includes regulars like Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, and Wayne Rooney. ITV's team features Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and Ian Wright, among others.
Match coverage details
The BBC is showing live coverage of England's second group stage game against Ghana on June 23, having also shown Scotland's opener against Haiti. The BBC will also broadcast Scotland's clash with Brazil on June 24. ITV aired England's victory over Croatia and Scotland's defeat to Morocco, and will show England vs Panama on June 27. The BBC is showing 54 games exclusively live on TV over five weeks, slightly more than ITV's 51.
