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FIFA’s new YouTube deal will stream the first 10 minutes of every 2026 World Cup match, aiming to hook younger fans before pushing them to full broadcasts.
News18
FIFA is taking a bold digital swing ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in their bid to attract younger audiences.
The governing body has announced a new partnership with YouTube, introducing a first-of-its-kind viewing experience.
For the first time in World Cup history, official broadcasters will be allowed to livestream the opening 10 minutes of every match on YouTube.
The idea here is to hook viewers early, especially digital-first audiences, and then nudge them toward full broadcasts on traditional platforms like TV.
“FIFA is delighted to welcome YouTube as a preferred platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” the statement from FIFA read.
“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,” they added.
FIFA describes it as a way to let fans “experience the energy from the very first whistle” before committing to the full match.
More Than Just Teasers
The deal goes beyond short previews.
Broadcasters will also be able to:
- Stream select matches in full on YouTube
- Upload extended highlights and clips
- Share behind-the-scenes content and Shorts
FIFA will additionally open up its archives, releasing full classic matches and iconic World Cup moments on the platform.
Creators Get Unprecedented Access
A major focus of the partnership is content creators.
YouTube creators will be granted behind-the-scenes access across the tournament, which will feature 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
This mirrors FIFA’s previous collaboration with YouTube during the 2022 World Cup, but on a much larger scale.
March 17, 2026, 23:46 IST
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