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 tournament.
ITV broadcasts from Brooklyn, BBC stays in Salford
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 chosen to remain in the UK, hosting coverage from its studio in Salford—including for England's Round of 32 clash with DR Congo on Wednesday evening.
The decision has attracted significant backlash, with critics arguing the national broadcaster should be present at one of the biggest TV events of the year.
BBC defends Salford studio as 'state of the art'
The BBC has insisted its new 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 retains an on-the-ground presence through commentators at matches.
The reason for the BBC's absence in the early rounds is a combination of financial and environmental considerations. Covering an expanded 48-team tournament across three countries represents a significant cost increase and logistical challenge. Remaining in Salford also reduces air travel, aligning with the BBC's efforts to cut its carbon footprint.
BBC and ITV punditry line-ups
The BBC's punditry line-up includes Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Steph Houghton, Ellen White, Scott Brown, Olivier Giroud, Gael Clichy, Cesar Azpilicueta, Benni McCarthy, Ashley Williams, Thomas Frank, and referee analyst Darren Cann. ITV's team features Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Ian Wright, Patrick Vieira, Karen Carney, Ange Postecoglou, Juan Mata, Emma Hayes, Duncan Ferguson, Jobi McAnuff, Bradley Wright-Phillips, and referee analyst Christina Unkel.
Upcoming matches and final details
If England beats DR Congo, their Round of 16 match against Mexico will be shown live on the BBC. A quarter-final victory would be on ITV, while a possible semi-final would return to the BBC. Both channels will broadcast the final on July 19.
