The BBC and ITV are sharing live coverage of the 2026 World Cup in the UK, with every match from the US, Canada and Mexico shown free on TV. However, the broadcasters have adopted contrasting approaches to presenting the tournament, which features 48 teams for the first time.
ITV broadcasts from Brooklyn, BBC stays in Salford
ITV presenters Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods are anchoring coverage from a studio in Brooklyn, New York, offering views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. In contrast, the BBC has chosen to remain at its Salford studio, a decision that has attracted significant backlash. Critics argue the national broadcaster should be present at one of the biggest TV events of the year.
BBC defends Salford studio as immersive
The BBC insists its new state-of-the-art immersive studio will 'transport viewers to 16 cities across three host nations.' The presenting team, led by Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates, could still travel to North America—but not until the quarter-final stage at the earliest. The BBC maintains an on-the-ground presence with commentators at matches.
Financial and environmental reasons
The decision is driven by financial and environmental considerations. Covering an expanded 48-team tournament across three countries significantly increases costs and logistical complexity. Remaining in Salford also reduces air travel, aligning with the BBC's efforts to cut its carbon footprint.
Punditry line-ups
The BBC's pundits include Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Steph Houghton, Ellen White, Scott Brown, Olivier Giroud, Gael Clichy, Cesar Azpilicueta, Benni McCarthy, Ashley Williams, Thomas Frank, and referee analyst Darren Cann. ITV's team features Roy Keane, Ian Wright, Gary Neville, Patrick Vieira, Karen Carney, Ange Postecoglou, Juan Mata, Emma Hayes, Duncan Ferguson, Jobi McAnuff, Bradley Wright-Phillips, and referee analyst Christina Unkel.
Match coverage details
The BBC aired England's second group game against Ghana on June 23 and Scotland's opener against Haiti. ITV broadcast England's victory over Croatia and Scotland's defeat to Morocco. The BBC will show 54 games exclusively live on TV over five weeks, slightly more than ITV's 51.
