World Cup 2026: Fixtures confirmed for June kick-off and where to watch – but beware the scammers

Football fever is ramping up fast with the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to launch across North America this summer. Matches are due to kick off on June 11 when Mexico confronts South Africa in the opening clash at Estadio Azteca. Further group games follow quickly over the next days as 48 teams battle for glory in the expanded format.

England enter Group L action shortly afterwards. Harry Kane’s side launches their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday, June 17, at 9pm UK time from Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Supporters can witness England go up against Ghana next on Tuesday, June 23, at 9pm UK time from Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Panama challenge England on Saturday, June 27, at 10pm UK time from MetLife Stadium in New York, New Jersey, to complete the group phase.

Where to watch World Cup matches in Europe

Viewers in Britain gain access through free-to-air coverage shared between the BBC and ITV. Both networks deliver every one of the 104 fixtures live across BBC One, ITV1, and associated channels plus streaming via BBC iPlayer and ITVX. England encounters receive prominent slots, with ITV1 screening the Croatia and Panama ties while BBC One handles the Ghana fixture. Simulcast arrangements cover the final on July 19, so audiences select preferred commentary without extra cost.

Spain offers similar legitimate routes for residents and taking early summer holidays. Public broadcaster RTVE will screen around 33 key games free of charge, including all Spain national team fixtures plus selected knockouts on La 1 and RTVE Play. DAZN provides full tournament access via subscription through its dedicated channel for complete live and on-demand viewing of every match.

Careful! Scammers have started luring football fans already

But watch out. Cybercriminals are exploiting eager viewers right now with fresh fraud tactics. Authorities in Catalonia have detected phishing emails impersonating King IPTV, a platform linked to unauthorised streaming of films, series, and sports. Messages promote cut-price subscriptions promising full World Cup access plus other events. Links inside redirect recipients to fake websites mimicking the real service where users input personal and banking details. Criminals want to harvest data or charge fees for services that never materialise.

Spanish police are warning against unsolicited offers arriving by email and text message. Users receive advice to purchase subscriptions only through verified official broadcasters and avoid clicking links in suspicious messages. Verification of website addresses before entering any information prevents data theft during this period of intense demand for sports content.

Fans planning viewing schedules benefit from checking broadcaster apps closer to June for exact transmission details and time zone adjustments. Legitimate platforms will give you high-quality broadcasts without risks associated with pirate services. Preparation now helps supporters enjoy every moment from the group stages through to the July 19 final in complete safety.