BBC and ITV announce World Cup match split

Following the FIFA World Cup 2018 draw on Friday, BBC and ITV can now confirm which broadcaster will show which matches of next summer’s much anticipated event in Russia.

The BBC will show England’s opening two games, which will see them face Tunisia (Monday 18 June, 7pm) and Panama (Sunday 24 June, 1pm). The BBC will also have the first two choices of quarter final games, including England’s match if they progress. Both BBC and ITV will show the final.

ITV will show the last England group game against Belgium and will have first pick in the round of 16. In the Group games, the BBC will also show the hotly anticipated clash between Spain and Ronaldo’s Portugal – the European Champions, two peak time matches with Lionel Messi’s Argentina and two of the games with World Champions Germany.

Philip Bernie, BBC Head of TV Sport, says: “We’re delighted with our selection of matches, which sees the BBC bring England’s first two games of the competition live to our audiences – as well as their potential quarter final. We are also very pleased to be showcasing the skills of the world’s best players, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, in five of their Group matches. The BBC is proud to be offering such an enticing array of games on football’s biggest stage, as we look to deliver to audiences unprecedented, extensive access to World Cup content across TV, radio, online and social media.”

Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, says: “The build up to the World Cup has now begun and we’re looking forward to bringing viewers entertaining and comprehensive coverage on ITV, ITV4 and the ITV Hub, as well as on social media. Once again, the World Cup starts on ITV with the host country’s opening game on 14 June and we have live coverage of some of most outstanding matches drawn from the group stages with England v Belgium as well as all three of tournament joint favourites Brazil’s games. ITV will have the first two picks of the first knock-out phase and the first pick of the semi-finals. ITV’s on and off screen team will be busy during the next six months preparing to bring our viewers all the best action and insight and all the stories that will shape the World Cup in Russia.”