BBC Sport and ITV Secure Free-to-Air Broadcast for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027

In a significant development for sports broadcasting in the United Kingdom, BBC Sport and ITV have jointly announced that they will provide free-to-air coverage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. This partnership, formalized on July 27, 2025, marks a continuation of a successful collaboration that has previously showcased major tournaments, further elevating the profile of women's football in the region.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 is set to commence on June 24, 2027, in South America, making it a landmark event as the first Women’s World Cup to be hosted on the continent. The tournament will feature 32 teams and will consist of 64 matches played across eight host cities, culminating in the final on July 25, 2027.

According to Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, “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.” The BBC's extensive coverage will include live broadcasts on television and its streaming service, BBC iPlayer, as well as comprehensive digital content featuring real-time highlights and expert analysis across various social media platforms.

ITV is equally committed to delivering extensive coverage, with live broadcasts on ITV1, ITV4, and ITVX. Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, emphasized the network's role in promoting women's football, stating, “ITV is proud to play a key role in supporting the tremendous growth of women’s football in the UK. It’s vital we ensure tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 remain free-to-air for generations of football fans to enjoy.”

The agreement ensures that both broadcasters will share the television rights equally, allowing them to air matches simultaneously and ensuring that the final is accessible to all viewers. This strategic partnership is seen as a pivotal move to maintain the momentum gained from previous tournaments, such as the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, where ITV recorded its largest audience of the year during the semi-final featuring England and Italy.

The significance of free-to-air coverage cannot be overstated, as it democratizes access to one of the most prestigious football tournaments globally. Historically, such arrangements have been crucial in fostering greater public interest and participation in the sport, especially among younger audiences.

Research from the Women’s Sports Foundation indicates that increased visibility of women’s sports leads to higher levels of engagement and participation among girls and young women. This is echoed in the 2023 study published in the Journal of Sports Management, which highlights the correlation between media exposure and female athlete recognition.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 is anticipated to further inspire a new generation of football fans and players, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support for women in sports. As both BBC and ITV prepare for the event, they are also committed to promoting the Lionesses, England's national women's team, through extensive coverage of their qualifying matches leading up to the tournament.

Looking ahead, the implications of this broadcast deal extend beyond mere viewership numbers; they signify a cultural shift towards greater acceptance and celebration of women's sports. As Alex Kay-Jelski remarked, the partnership not only aims to continue inspiring existing fans but also to attract new audiences to the sport, ensuring that the Women’s World Cup remains a pivotal moment in the global sporting calendar.