ITV viewers have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the broadcaster's coverage of the 2026 World Cup, particularly during the Switzerland versus Bosnia-Herzegovina Group B match. The network's decision to set up an outdoor studio in Brooklyn, New York, with a scenic view of the Manhattan skyline, backfired as strong winds created a chaotic and distracting viewing experience.
Wind Disrupts Outdoor Studio
Unlike the BBC, which opted for a controlled indoor environment at its Salford studios in Manchester, ITV chose a glitzy outdoor location. However, the weather proved to be a major obstacle. Presenters, including Laura Woods, struggled as their hair and clothing were tossed by the wind. The sound quality was noticeably affected, with banging and clattering noises from the studio fixtures audible in the background.
Viewers took to social media platform X to vent their frustration. One user commented, 'It's quite funny that after a week of people raving about ITV having a nice World Cup coverage view, it's now so windy that it's become borderline unwatchable.' Another added, 'Hey @ITV, move the world cup team indoors ... All I can hear is the banging and clattering of the studio fitting.'
Viewers Demand Change
The backlash continued with more critical posts. A third viewer wrote, 'Move yourselves indoors, ITV. Laughable watching this World Cup coverage in the howling wind.' A fourth quipped, 'The ITV studio covering the World Cup nearly takes off with strong winds live on air!' Sarcastic remarks also emerged, such as 'ITV have picked a great spot for their World Cup 2026 studio.' Another viewer pointed out the obvious alternative: 'ITV World Cup studio sounds like it's about to collapse in high winds. Wouldn't get that problem indoors at Salford.'
ITV's Pre-Tournament Enthusiasm
Before the opening ceremony on June 11, ITV had promoted their coverage with great enthusiasm. A statement read: 'This is the biggest FIFA World Cup in history, and we will be live from New York City for the duration of the tournament, bringing every key moment to life, free-to-air. Nothing unifies the UK audience more than a global sporting event, and they don't come much bigger than this. Our broadcast line-up is second to none, and our comprehensive coverage across ITV, ITVX, our World Cup 24/7 Channel, plus our digital platforms will ensure the ITV audience doesn't miss a second of action.'
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the BBC and ITV jointly hosting World Cup television coverage.
