BBC to Show Scotland’s First Men’s World Cup Match Since 1998 as 2026 Broadcast Schedule Confirmed

The BBC will broadcast Scotland’s first men’s World Cup match in 28 years when Steve Clarke’s side face Haiti on 14 June, as well as their final Group F clash against Brazil.

England’s second group match, a 23 June meeting with Ghana, will also air on the BBC, along with any knockout fixtures the Three Lions reach in the last 32, last 16 and the semi-finals.

ITV, meanwhile, will show England’s other Group L games against Croatia and Panama, plus Scotland’s key meeting with Morocco.

If Wales or Northern Ireland qualify through March’s play-offs – the two are among four nations competing for one spot – their group stage fixture against Canada on 12 June will be broadcast live on the BBC. The broadcaster will also show two group games for the Republic of Ireland should they make it through their own play-off route.

The BBC and ITV will once again share coverage of the tournament and will both show the World Cup final. The BBC has secured three of the top four picks in the round of 16 and three of the top five in the round of 32.

Defending champions Argentina will have their group matches against Austria and Jordan shown on the BBC, which will also carry two games each featuring France, Brazil, the Netherlands and Portugal.

“We can’t wait to bring you the FIFA Men’s World Cup,” said BBC director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski. “From (hopefully) England knockout games to Scotland’s crunch matches with Haiti and Brazil, plus star names like Messi, Mbappé, Ronaldo, Yamal, Salah and Haaland, we will bring you every moment.”

ITV director of sport Niall Sloane added: “We are proud to broadcast the FIFA World Cup and ensure it stays free-to-air for the UK audience.”

The 2026 World Cup will be the first hosted by three nations – the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament kicks off on 11 June in Mexico City and concludes with the final on 19 July in New Jersey.