Overview
- DAZN confirmed an agreement with FIFA to broadcast all 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup live in Italy.
- Rai secured exclusive free-to-air rights to 35 games, including the opener, both semifinals and the final, plus any Italy matches if the team qualifies.
- Rai will air at least 32 matches on Rai 1, hold non-exclusive radio rights for all fixtures, and provide highlights and clips of every game across its outlets and social channels.
- Rai drew criticism for a press release that implied all Italy games were included despite qualification not yet being secured.
- Italy must navigate playoffs against Northern Ireland on March 26 and, if successful, the Wales–Bosnia winner on March 31; the 48-team tournament runs June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico.