FIFA and YouTube team up for the 2026 World Cup: Key details explained

YouTube has officially partnered with FIFA to become a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the fan experience by making the tournament more accessible through digital-first content and creator integration.

For the first time in history, media partners have the option to live stream the first 10 minutes of every match on their official YouTube channels. 

Select matches will be available to stream in their entirety on the channels of specific media partners. FIFA will open its Digital Archive on its official YouTube channel, featuring full-length classic games and iconic historical moments.

Following this announcement, broadcasters and partners can share extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and VOD content. In this connection, partners will utilize YouTube’s short-form vertical video format to reach younger, and mobile-first audiences.

“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,” said FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström.

This partnership is designed to maximize the tournament's impact across a rapidly changing media landscape. By combining official match footage with creator-led content, FIFA aims to engage the next generation of fans who primarily consume sports via digital platforms. 

In addition, news is circulating that Google is also looking forward to collaborating with teams, having already partnered with national teams from Argentina and France, with more partnerships expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.