Zurich: FIFA has announced that YouTube will serve as a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026, in a move aimed at expanding digital access and enhancing fan engagement worldwide.
The partnership, described as a significant step in the evolution of sports broadcasting, will see FIFA collaborate with its official Media Partners and digital creators to deliver a wider range of content formats to global audiences.
Under the agreement, Media Partners will be able to utilise their respective YouTube channels to publish extended match highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, short-form videos, and on-demand content. The initiative is expected to significantly boost reach and interaction with fans across different markets.
In a first for the tournament, Media Partners will also have the option to live stream the opening 10 minutes of every match on YouTube, allowing viewers to experience the early moments of games in real time. Additionally, a select number of matches will be streamed in full on the platform, providing further access while directing audiences to official broadcast channels.
FIFA said the arrangement would also create new monetisation opportunities for Media Partners, while enabling fans to consume premium football content in more flexible and accessible ways through FIFA’s official YouTube channel.
As part of efforts to build anticipation ahead of the tournament, FIFA will unlock content from its digital archive on YouTube. This will include full-length classic matches and iconic moments from previous editions of the World Cup, offering fans a chance to relive football history.
FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström welcomed the development, noting that the partnership would redefine how global audiences engage with the tournament.
“FIFA is delighted to welcome YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026. 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,” he said.
He added that with the tournament set to take place across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the collaboration reinforces FIFA’s ambition to maximise the event’s global reach across an increasingly digital media landscape.
The agreement will also provide a global network of YouTube creators with unprecedented access to the tournament, enabling them to produce unique content ranging from human-interest stories to tactical analysis and behind-the-scenes coverage.
YouTube’s Vice President and Global Head of Media & Sports, Justin Connolly, said the platform is focused on delivering an interactive and fan-centric sports experience.
“By providing official media partners and creators with premium content and unparalleled access, we’re delivering a comprehensive experience for fans and partners alike,” he said, adding that the initiative would help attract both dedicated and casual followers of the sport.
FIFA noted that the collaboration aligns with its broader strategy of working with preferred platforms to expand digital engagement while safeguarding intellectual property. The initiative is also expected to amplify promotion of the World Cup among younger audiences and bring fresh creator-driven perspectives to the global showpiece.
The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup is widely anticipated to be the largest in the tournament’s history, with expanded participation and a growing global fan base.
