ITV has unveiled an expansive World Cup sweepstake featuring a multitude of its stars, as the highly anticipated tournament approaches. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is set to commence on June 11, and ITV is marking the occasion with a celebrity-filled competition.
Celebrity Participants and Their Teams
A diverse array of ITV personalities, including KSI, Alan Carr, and the Loose Women panel, are going head-to-head after each drawing a team to support. This year's World Cup is the largest ever, with 48 teams competing over 39 action-packed days, and the off-pitch rivalry promises to be equally thrilling.
- Ant and Dec have drawn Brazil.
- Alesha Dixon secured the Netherlands.
- KSI has been handed France.
- Loose Women will be backing Scotland.
- Coronation Street boasts Portugal.
- Emmerdale is supporting England.
Other notable participants include Amanda Holden, Tom Allen, Jonathan Ross, and Stephen Mulhern. They are joined by stars from Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, This Morning, ITV News, TOWIE, The Real Housewives of Cheshire, as well as Rylan, Joel Dommett, Bradley Walsh, Emma Willis, and many more.
Real Fans Join the Fun
In addition to the celebrities, 12 real fans have also been included in the draw. These fans represent a cross-section of society, including NHS workers, firefighters, farmers, and grassroots football teams. Their participation adds a genuine touch to the sweepstake, bridging the gap between stars and everyday supporters.
Behind the Scenes: Sweepstake Boxes
Before the World Cup officially begins, viewers will have the opportunity to watch the stars open their sweepstake boxes, revealing flags, bunting, and wall charts. The emotional rollercoaster of drawing a tournament favorite versus a rank outsider will be on full display, from elation to disappointment.
With 48 teams, three host nations, 16 venues, and millions of fans worldwide, this summer's World Cup is undoubtedly the sporting highlight of the year. The best players on the planet will compete across the USA, Mexico, and Canada over five weeks, promising drama and excitement.
England and Scotland's Prospects
England enters the tournament as one of the favorites, aiming to end 60 years of hurt. Meanwhile, Scotland, having qualified on a memorable night at Hampden Park, will look to cause a few upsets. The competition is fierce, and the sweepstake adds an extra layer of engagement for fans.
To kick off the festivities, the Mirror is launching a bumper 64-page guide profiling all 48 teams and offering a closer look at the 16 venues across the three host nations. The guide also includes a World Cup wallchart, allowing fans to track the action and the path to glory. Copies can be ordered online or picked up from participating retailers starting May 27, 2026. Online postage and packaging costs apply.
ITV will begin its coverage of the tournament on June 11 with the first two matches, including one of the host nations: Mexico versus South Africa, live from Mexico City at 8 PM UK time on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player.
