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The BBC and ITV have secured the broadcasting rights to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, ensuring the biggest tournament in women’s football remains free-to-air for UK audiences.
The broadcasters will split games evenly between them in the group and knockout stages but will both show the final.
“Extending our partnership with Fifa alongside ITV ensures that the drama and spectacle of the Women’s World Cup remains free-to-air,” said BBC director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski.
“BBC Sport has been a longstanding champion of women’s football, helping to elevate the game to where it is today – a sport experiencing unprecedented growth in popularity and reach across BBC Sport platforms.
“From domestic leagues to major international tournaments, we’ve brought the defining moments to millions across the UK already, including this summer’s Women’s Euro tournament.”
BBC Sport will show live coverage on TV and iPlayer as well as bringing coverage to the website and across radio and social media platforms.
ITV will also have live games on TV as well as coverage on social media and ITVX. In addition, the broadcaster will show all of England’s qualifying matches and friendlies.
“The Fifa Women’s World Cup 2027 is sure to be another standout tournament and we look forward to continuing our relationship with both Fifa and the BBC,” said Niall Sloane, ITV director of sport.
The 32-team tournament will start on 24 June 2027 and conclude on 27 July.
Spain are the defending world champions after beating England 1-0 in the final in 2023.
The pair will go head-to-head again in Sunday’s Euro 25 final.
You can follow that game from 17:00 BST on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, listen on BBC Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds, and follow live text on the BBC Sport website and app.
In a landmark move for women’s sports, the BBC and ITV have officially secured the broadcasting rights for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. This development marks a significant milestone in the growing visibility and popularity of women’s football in the United Kingdom and across the globe. With millions of fans eagerly anticipating the tournament, the partnership between these two major broadcasters promises extensive coverage, innovative programming, and increased accessibility for viewers of all ages.
A Boost for Women’s Football
The acquisition of the 2027 Women’s World Cup rights by BBC and ITV is a clear sign of the shifting landscape in sports broadcasting. Over recent years, women’s football has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity, fueled by thrilling tournaments, outstanding athletes, and increased media attention. The decision by two of the UK’s biggest broadcasters to share the rights reflects a commitment to continuing this momentum and providing a platform worthy of the sport’s growth.
Women’s football has broken many barriers in recent times. The record-breaking viewership numbers for the 2019 and 2023 Women’s World Cups underscored the sport’s global appeal. By 2027, the anticipation is that these numbers will only increase as more countries develop their women’s football programs, and the level of competition intensifies.
Comprehensive Coverage and Accessibility
The joint deal between the BBC and ITV means that fans will have access to comprehensive, high-quality coverage of the tournament across multiple platforms. Both broadcasters have a strong track record of sports coverage and are expected to offer live broadcasts, highlights, expert analysis, and engaging pre- and post-match shows.
Importantly, the coverage will not be confined to traditional television alone. With the rise of digital streaming, BBC iPlayer and ITV Hub will provide fans with on-demand access to matches and additional content. This approach ensures that the tournament reaches a wider, younger audience who consume sports through mobile devices and online platforms.
Accessibility is a key focus for both broadcasters. They have pledged to make the tournament as inclusive as possible, with provisions for commentary in multiple languages, audio descriptions for visually impaired viewers, and tailored programming for younger audiences to nurture interest in women’s football from an early age.
Promoting Gender Equality in Sports
Securing the rights to broadcast the Women’s World Cup is more than just a business deal; it is a powerful statement about the importance of gender equality in sports. By dedicating prime airtime to women’s football, BBC and ITV are challenging long-standing norms and helping to elevate female athletes to the same status as their male counterparts.
This partnership is expected to inspire a new generation of girls and young women to take up football, contributing to grassroots development and expanding the talent pool. Increased visibility also helps to attract sponsors and investors, which is vital for the continued growth and professionalization of women’s football.
Looking Ahead: The 2027 Tournament
The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup promises to be a groundbreaking event. With an expanded format and more teams participating than ever before, the tournament will showcase the best talent from around the globe. The host nation, yet to be announced, will welcome fans from all continents, creating an electric atmosphere both inside and outside the stadiums.
BBC and ITV’s joint coverage will bring every moment to life, from the nail-biting group stages to the thrilling knockout rounds and the final showdown. Fans can expect in-depth features on players, tactical insights from experts, and inspirational stories highlighting the journey of women’s football worldwide.
Conclusion
The announcement that BBC and ITV have secured the 2027 Women’s World Cup broadcasting rights is a win not only for football fans but for the broader movement toward equality in sports. It reflects a growing recognition of women’s football as a major sporting event deserving of global attention.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, the collaboration between these broadcasters promises to deliver an unforgettable tournament experience — one that celebrates athletic excellence, inspires future generations, and cements women’s football firmly in the heart of British and global sports culture.