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FIFA Names YouTube Preferred Platform for 2026 World Cup, Allowing Live Kickoff Previews

The deal adds a digital layer that preserves territorial broadcast rights, with financial terms undisclosed.

Overview

  • Rights-holding broadcasters can live-stream the first 10 minutes of every World Cup match on their YouTube channels during the June 11–July 19 tournament.
  • Media partners may carry a select number of full matches on YouTube and publish extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, Shorts, and on-demand videos.
  • FIFA will release portions of its digital archive on YouTube, including full-length classic matches and other iconic moments.
  • A global cohort of YouTube creators will receive expanded access for creator-led storytelling around the 104-game, 48-team event across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
  • Full-match broadcasts remain with licensed services in each territory, such as Fox and Telemundo in the U.S., and FIFA has not revealed the deal’s value.