The BBC and ITV's coverage of the 2026 World Cup has been chaotic, with a series of high-profile mistakes that have frustrated viewers. The tournament, featuring 48 teams playing 104 matches over 39 days, is the largest in history. Both broadcasters enlisted top talent like Wayne Rooney, Alan Shearer, Ally McCoist, and Sam Matterface, but errors have persisted.
England vs. Congo DR Technical Glitch
During England's tense match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the BBC suffered a brief technical glitch. As England launched an attack on Lionel Mpasi's goal, coverage dropped out for several seconds, leaving viewers with a black screen. The score remained 1-0 to the DRC when the broadcast resumed.
BBC's French Team Graphic Error
The BBC mistakenly aired an incorrect graphic of the French team before their game against Senegal. Player names were mismatched: Jules Koundé's name appeared over Ibrahima Konaté's image, and Dayot Upamecano's image was used twice, once with William Saliba's name. A BBC spokesperson apologised for the error.
Korean Name Mistake
During South Korea vs. Czech Republic, the BBC incorrectly displayed Korean names. Traditional Korean naming places the surname first, but the BBC credited goals and assists using given names. For example, South Korea's equaliser was credited to "In-Beom" instead of Hwang, and the assist to "Kang-In" instead of Lee.
ITV Timing Blunder
ITV faced backlash after cutting to an advert break at the end of normal time during Morocco vs. Netherlands. By the time they returned, extra time had already started, leaving viewers confused.
Semra Hunter's Wrong Introduction
ITV host Semra Hunter mistakenly introduced Sweden manager Graham Potter as former England boss Gareth Southgate. While commenting on Potter's cowboy hat, she said: "Sweden coach Gareth Southgate… there’s a new sheriff in town!"
