World Cup 2026 final: Spain v Argentina — channels, kick-off time and the halftime show
Now the finalists have been decided, here's everything you need for Sunday: kick-off time, which channel to watch, and a genuine broadcast decision to make — because for the first time, BBC and ITV are covering the final very differently.
The final
MetLife Stadium, New Jersey — Spain, who beat France 2-0 in Dallas, face Argentina, who beat England 2-1 in Atlanta. As has been tradition since 1966, the final is simulcast live on both BBC One and ITV1, so every viewer has a genuine choice of broadcast.
The halftime show decision
This is the first World Cup final to feature a proper halftime show — an 11-minute performance headlined by Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber, with Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay, all curated by Chris Martin. The overall break is expected to run longer than the usual 15-minute limit to allow for staging either side of the performance itself.
Here's where it gets interesting for UK viewers: ITV has confirmed it'll show the full performance live, in addition to its own analysis, while BBC is sticking with its traditional studio punditry through the break instead of cutting to the show.
As it stands (correct at time of writing, 09:48, 16 July 2026), that's the position for both broadcasters — though either could still adjust their plans before Sunday, so it's worth a quick check on the day if the halftime show is a deciding factor for you.
Commentary teams
Neither broadcaster has officially confirmed a locked final-day line-up yet — that typically comes right before kick-off. But based on how each has used its team through the knockout rounds:
Who's favourite?
Spain go in as favourites to lift the trophy at 8/13 with bet365, with Argentina priced at 13/10. For the match itself over 90 minutes, Spain are 5/4, the draw is 2/1, and Argentina are 5/2.
Before that: the third-place play-off
France take on England for third place on Saturday 18 July, 22:00 BST, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami — free-to-air in the UK across BBC and ITV, with the exact channel yet to be confirmed. Rarely the most-watched game of the tournament, but usually one of the most open.
Add the final to your watchlist and never miss kick-off
Open Watchsport →Catch up on how Spain and Argentina got here in our World Cup favourites guide, or revisit the semi-final TV guide for how the last four played out.
Odds correct at time of publication and subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, visit BeGambleAware.org for free support and advice. 18+ only.