Arsenal and Manchester City are due to meet in the 2026 FA Community Shield, but the match will not be shown on free-to-air TV. The game, scheduled for Sunday, August 16, will be broadcast exclusively on TNT Sports, which took over the rights in 2025.
Why isn't the Community Shield on BBC or ITV?
The Community Shield and its predecessor, the Charity Shield, was a regular fixture on free-to-air TV, with ITV enjoying a long-standing agreement. However, that changed in 2025 when TNT Sports acquired the broadcast rights.
Those hoping to watch the action will need a TNT Sports subscription. Subscribers can tune in via TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, Prime Video, HBO Max, or Now TV.
Other events leaving free-to-air
BBC Sport has lost the rights to major sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games, in recent years. It now only offers highlights of The Open, having previously shown full live coverage. ITV also lost the rights to the Tour de France recently, with TNT Sports taking over.
ITV still showing free football
While ITV won't broadcast the Community Shield this year, it will offer free-to-air coverage of EFL matches. Upcoming free-to-air games include a London derby between Millwall and West Ham on September 19.
Venue change and match details
This year's Community Shield has moved away from Wembley, where it was held last year, to the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. The match kicks off at 3pm and pits Premier League holders Arsenal against reigning FA Cup champions Manchester City.
