This Morning viewers threatened to switch off Wednesday's episode just minutes into the broadcast, complaining about an overload of football content. The July 15 show was entirely dedicated to the FIFA World Cup 2026, as England prepared to face Argentina in the semi-finals in Atlanta that evening.
Football-Focused Show Sparks Backlash
Hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley opened the programme with a live brass band playing the football anthem Three Lions. The episode featured football debates, a live brass band performing football tunes, footballer lookalikes, an interview with a real-life witch to predict the score, and a chat with the 'Three Lions' mascots who have been supporting England in the crowd.
Viewers took to Twitter (now X) to express their frustration. One user wrote: "I wonder how many viewers they’ve lost with the huge amount of football overkill they’ve been ramming down our throats throughout the summer #thismorning." Another said: "Can they not go 5 minutes without mentioning the b****y football #thismorning." A third added: "Ok if this is going to be all about England Im done over kill #thismorning."
Continued Complaints Across Social Media
Other comments included: "Ok so this is too much now! #thismorning!" and "More football nonsense!! #Thismorning!" One viewer remarked: "Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I can't wait for all this World Cup c**p to end #thismorning," while another simply said: "STOP! Just STOP! #thismorning."
The backlash highlights a divide among the show's audience, with some viewers feeling that regular news and variety have been sacrificed for football coverage. This Morning continues weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITVX.
