The BBC's FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage will feature a stellar lineup of presenters, commentators and pundits as the tournament kicks off this summer. The 37-day event, starting Thursday, June 11, will see 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the BBC delivering comprehensive coverage across television, digital and social platforms for the first time.
Presenters Leading the Coverage
Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott will head BBC Sport's television coverage from Salford. They will be joined by a host of pundits including Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, Ellen White, Steph Houghton, Rachel Corsie, Olivier Giroud, Joe Hart, César Azpilicueta, Benni McCarthy, Lucas Leiva and Thomas Frank.
Commentary Team
Lead commentators include Guy Mowbray, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower, Jonathan Pearce, Robyn Cowen, Steven Wyeth and Liam McLeod. Co-commentary will be provided by Alan Shearer, Danny Murphy, Stephen Warnock, Efan Ekoku, Martin Keown, Sue Smith, Rachel Corsie, James McFadden and Paul Robinson.
Extensive Coverage Across Platforms
For the first time, BBC Sport will offer always-on World Cup coverage across YouTube, TikTok and social channels. A total of 54 games will be broadcast live on BBC television, with every match available on digital platforms. Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Director of Sport, said: "The BBC is turning the biggest World Cup in history into the most iconic one yet. We're bringing fans closer to every match, every moment and every story than ever before."
Key Matches on BBC
Live matches include England's group stage meeting with Ghana and potential knockout games in the round of 32, round of 16 and semi-final. Scotland's opener and final group match against Haiti and Brazil respectively will also be shown. Group fixtures featuring Argentina, France, Brazil, Spain and Germany are included, along with all knockout rounds and the final on Sunday, July 19.
The BBC's new state-of-the-art studios in Salford will debut on Friday, June 12. The decision to base operations in Salford rather than America has drawn some criticism, but the BBC has defended the move as part of its commitment to delivering comprehensive coverage.
