FIFA Adds YouTube as Preferred Platform for 2026 World Cup

FIFA announced YouTube as a "Preferred Platform" partner for the 2026 World Cup, the second such designation following a similar agreement with TikTok.

Under the deal, FIFA media rights holders will have the option to stream a select number of matches in full on their YouTube channels. All matches will offer the first 10 minutes free on the platform. Media partners will also gain access to extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, Shorts and video-on-demand content.

"FIFA is delighted to welcome YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026," FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström said.

"By spotlighting FIFA's premium content and unlocking new opportunities for Media Partners and creators, this agreement will engage global fans in ways never seen before."

Creator Access and Archive Strategy

FIFA has selected a global cohort of YouTube creators who will receive heightened access to matches and tournament operations. Creators will also be able to pull from FIFA's digital archive to provide historical context alongside current tournament coverage. Full-length matches and iconic moments from past World Cups will be available on FIFA's official YouTube channel.

Platform Position

YouTube holds an estimated 12.4% share of U.S. TV viewing time and roughly 24% of U.S. connected TV streaming minutes. The platform recently launched a sports-only TV package offering access to content from major broadcasters.

U.S. Broadcast Rights

In the U.S., English-language World Cup broadcast rights are held by Fox Corporation, with matches streaming on Fox One. Spanish-language rights belong to Comcast's Telemundo, with streaming available on Peacock.

Read our 2030 World Cup Outlook Here (published 3/18/26)

Or go deeper with this story:

‍YouTube Is the World's Largest Media Company But The People Who Built It Aren't Celebrating (published 3/17/26)