Overview
- The World Cup opened Thursday, June 11, with Mexico vs. South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City following a 90‑minute opening ceremony headlined by Shakira and Burna Boy.
- U.S. rights place English broadcasts on Fox and FS1 while Telemundo will air 92 games, Universo 12, and Peacock will stream every match in Spanish; Zee/Unite8 Sports and Zee5 are reported to hold rights in India.
- Broadcasters and platforms are using multiple options to reach viewers, including linear channels, Peacock streaming, Fubo and Sling packages, free trials, and FAST channels to offer lower‑cost access.
- Operational frictions are unfolding: U.S. visa denials that prevented Somali referee Omar Artan from entering, questions about dynamic ticket pricing and resale, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s public response have put access and policy under scrutiny.
- The expanded format and logistics are shaping the month: 48 teams will play 104 matches across 16 host cities with a new Round of 32, three opening ceremonies and concentrated security and transport demands for fans and teams.