The BBC has reported that TV licence sales performed 'very strongly' during the World Cup, following the introduction of a QR code for purchasing licences during football broadcasts. However, the corporation's latest annual report reveals that total licence numbers dropped by more than half a million in the 2025/26 financial year, with income from fees falling by over £1 billion in real terms over the past decade.
World Cup boost amid long-term decline
A TV Licensing spokesperson said: 'The summer campaign, including use of the QR code is ongoing, but initial signs suggest TV Licence sales have performed very strongly during the World Cup. Major live sporting events typically drive an increase in sales activity. We will continue to do all we can to ensure people are properly licensed.'
The annual report, published on July 14, noted that the BBC's financial outlook 'deteriorated' in the second half of 2025. To counter falling profits, the BBC has reduced salaries for some of its highest-paid stars. The licence fee rose to £180 per year for a colour television on April 1.
Funding model under pressure
While 94% of adults use BBC services each month, fewer than 80% of households contribute financially to the licence fee. BBC chairman Samir Shah previously stated that the current funding model means the corporation 'cannot maintain its public service mission'. The decline in licence fee income has intensified calls for reform ahead of Charter renewal negotiations.
Halftime advertising campaign
During the World Cup final coverage of Spain vs Argentina, the BBC aired a four-minute advert for licence fees at halftime. The ad, starring comedian Romesh Ranganathan, featured iconic BBC sets and stars including Ruth Jones, Alan Carr, and Claudia Winkleman. It concluded with Louis Theroux threatening to 'cut the BBC off forever', saying: 'None of this has to exist if we don't want it to!'
