FIFA has opened the bidding process for media rights covering the 2030 World Cup in the United States and Puerto Rico, with bidders also able to include an option for the 2034 tournament.
Rights process opens for future World Cups
The governing body issued the invitation to tender on Thursday and said it would consider new and creative methods of bringing the competition to the widest possible audience. Completed bids must be submitted by November 19.
- The package covers media rights in the United States and Puerto Rico for the 2030 finals.
- It also gives interested broadcasters the possibility of securing rights to the 2034 World Cup.
- FIFA has invited innovative distribution proposals designed to attract large audiences.
Broadcast landscape and audience growth
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Fox owned exclusive English-language US broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Cup, which was jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Telemundo held the corresponding rights package.
FIFA reported that the 2026 tournament drew an average US audience of 13.5 million for each match across traditional television and streaming services, representing a 166% increase on the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
Hosts confirmed for 2030 and 2034
Spain, winners of the 2026 World Cup, will share hosting duties for the 2030 competition with Portugal and Morocco. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will each stage opening matches as part of celebrations for the tournament’s 100th anniversary.
- Spain, Portugal and Morocco will serve as the principal 2030 hosts.
- Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will host the inaugural fixtures commemorating the centenary.
- Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the 2034 World Cup.
Netflix secures Spanish coverage
Netflix announced earlier this week that it had obtained rights to show the 2030 World Cup in Spain and Andorra.
