ARD and ZDF to broadcast 60 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

ARD and ZDF have reached an agreement with Deutsche Telekom to broadcast 60 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The deal is reportedly a sublicensing arrangement with Deutsche Telekom (MagentaTV).

What’s included

• All matches featuring the German national team
• The opening match
• Both semifinal matches
• The final

Publication date of primary reporting: 8 October 2025.

Sources

• Heise – ARD and ZDF to broadcast 60 matches of the 2026 World Cup
• Inside World Football – Deutsche Telekom’s MagentaTV swoops for 2026 rights, cuts deal with ARD and ZDF
• SportBusiness – ARD, ZDF strike Deutsche Telekom World Cup deal

What do you think this means for free-to-air coverage in Germany? Share your thoughts in the comments.