YouTube has officially joined TikTok as a FIFA-designated “Preferred Platform” for the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing expanded content rights and creator access ahead of the tournament, which will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

“FIFA is delighted to welcome YouTube as a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” said FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström. “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.”

The partnership grants official FIFA Media Partners a broader set of content options on YouTube, according to YouTube’s official blog post. For the first time in the tournament’s history, broadcasters can live-stream the opening 10 minutes of every match on their YouTube channels. A select number of matches will also be available in full on partner channels. Beyond live coverage, Media Partners gain access to extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, Shorts, and video-on-demand content.

FIFA will also unlock archival footage from its digital library on its official YouTube channel, including full-length past matches and historical moments from the sport.

Creator Access and Programming

YouTube will provide a global cohort of creators with direct access to matches and tournament activities. Creators will produce content covering human interest stories, tactical analysis, and behind-the-scenes footage. FIFA’s digital archive will also be available to creators ahead of the tournament’s start.

“YouTube is focused on delivering a global, fan-centric, interactive approach to sports entertainment, and we are proud to be a preferred platform for the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” said Justin Connolly, YouTube’s Vice President and Global Head of Media and Sports. “Whether you’re a hardcore or a casual fan, this partnership will help usher in the next generation of fans.”

Platform Context

The YouTube-FIFA deal follows TikTok’s own “Preferred Platform” agreement with FIFA, announced in January. That partnership introduced a dedicated World Cup hub, creator access to press conferences and training sessions, and live-streaming rights for Media Partners.

YouTube’s entry into the arrangement reflects its growing footprint in sports media. The platform generated an estimated $62 billion in total revenue in 2025, surpassing Disney’s media business, according to financial research firm MoffettNathanson. YouTube has also reported paying out more than $100 billion to creators, music companies, and Media Partners to date.

FIFA’s digital creator strategy predates the 2026 World Cup. In May 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino appeared on YouTuber iShowSpeed’s livestream to unveil the Club World Cup trophy, reaching nearly 40 million subscribers.

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