Football’s global governing body, FIFA, has named YouTube a “preferred platform” for the 2026 World Cup, expanding digital access to the tournament for global audiences.
Under the partnership, broadcasters will be allowed to stream the first 10 minutes of matches from the 48-team tournament, scheduled to take place across the United States, Mexico and Canada between June 11 and July 19.
The opening match will be held in Mexico City, featuring the host nation Mexico against South Africa in a Group A fixture.
FIFA said the initiative is aimed at attracting younger audiences by allowing them to watch match openings on YouTube before transitioning to traditional broadcast channels.
Media partners will also be able to stream select matches in full, share extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, Shorts and video-on-demand content via the platform.
In addition, FIFA plans to release archival content, including full-length historic matches and iconic moments, on its official YouTube channel.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom said the collaboration would expand fan engagement and provide easier access to tournament content globally.
