As the UK gears up to support both England and Scotland at the World Cup in the US this week, viewers may encounter messages from the BBC during match broadcasts. Much of the World Cup coverage in the UK will be shown on the BBC, with some matches also available on ITV.
To watch live television in the UK or catch up on BBC iPlayer, a TV licence is required. The annual licence costs £180 and funds the BBC, enabling nationwide access to its content. However, the BBC estimates that the TV licence evasion rate rose from 12.04% in 2023/24 to 12.52% in 2024/25, with many attempting to watch the World Cup without a valid licence, risking fines of up to £1,000.
FA Cup Final as a Precedent
The BBC used its live coverage of the FA Cup final on 16 May between Chelsea and Manchester City to remind viewers of the licence requirement. During half-time, a QR code was displayed inviting viewers to check if they needed a licence or to purchase one. Commentator Guy Mowbray stated: "The World Cup starts on 11 June, and don't forget you need a TV licence to enjoy all the live action. You can get yours, make it easy for you, via the QR code that's on the screen now."
TV Licence Rules for World Cup
The TV licence website clarifies: "You'll need a TV Licence to watch live, record games or catch-up on iPlayer." It specifies that a licence is not required to catch up on ITVX. Viewers are advised to "check BBC and ITV schedules closer to the tournament to see where each match is shown." The site also states: "Even though the World Cup is hosted in the United States, the same TV Licence rules apply. You'll need a valid TV Licence to watch matches live on TV or online on any device, record or catch-up with coverage on BBC iPlayer."
Alternative Viewing Options
For those wishing to avoid the licence fee, matches can be watched at public venues such as the World Cup Fan Zone in Times Square, Newcastle, or Freight Island, which will show all England matches across its screens. A full list of venues showing World Cup matches is available from NE1.
