Don't Count on SBS for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Everything You Need to Know

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and football fans in Australia are bracing for the excitement. For the first time in over three decades, the tournament will be co-hosted by three countries - the United States, Canada, and Mexico - and will feature 48 teams competing for the coveted title. However, due to a decline in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's (ABC) television rugby coverage ratings, SBS has also decided to end its FIFA World Cup broadcast deal, leaving fans wondering what the future holds for watching the tournament in Australia.

SBS's decision has left many fans scrambling for alternatives to catch all the action. The channel has been the go-to destination for football enthusiasts during previous World Cups, but with its coverage coming to an end, fans must explore new options. This article delves into the landscape of 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcast rights in Australia, explores the reasons behind SBS's decision, and provides an overview of potential alternatives for football fans to watch the 2026 tournament.

**SBS's FIFA Broadcast Decision**

SBS, which has been broadcasting the FIFA World Cup since 1978, has committed to ending its broadcasting rights. According to Adam Lang, SBS Director of Sport, this decision is based on the station's need to 'transform and stay relevant' with its audience's changing viewing habits. As few viewers tune in on traditional television while a significant number watch on online platforms, SBS is putting more emphasis on internet-based content, focusing on content that 'appeals to an online audience.' As per Lang, this aligns more closely with their future television landscape.

Despite generating a 'small but passionate' audience for FIFA games, SBS could not compete financially. Since viewer numbers for rugby and football fall, SBS states its focus needs to shift away from sporting events towards other content, 'por individiual groups.' However, disappointing news for football fans as it has always brought in committed viewers who can no longer turn to their traditional destination, leaving many scratching their heads in the hope to find the FIFA 2026 world cup live Denmark vs Norway, _{has live coverage, else going into searching for others options}.

**What's Next for FIFA in Australia?**

With SBS no longer broadcasting the FIFA World Cup, attention is on the other domestic networks to fill the void. The option that gets rise fairly inside public interest are the kayo streaming services: