How to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live in DR Congo

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be historic, with 48 teams competing over nearly 40 days of football. The tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026 and will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. For fans in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (often called DR Congo), knowing where to watch is essential. Broadcasting rights dictate which channels and platforms show matches. This guide explains all the ways you can watch live games, whether via satellite TV, streaming services or free-to-air broadcasts.

Broadcast rights in DR Congo

New World TV’s exclusive pay‑TV rights

FIFA awarded exclusive pay‑TV rights for the 2026 tournament to New World TV across 19 French‑speaking sub‑Saharan territories. DR Congo is listed among these countries. New World TV’s satellite channels will air every match live, including group games, knockouts and the final. To enjoy full coverage, you’ll need a satellite dish and decoder and a subscription. Packages are expected to offer commentary in French and local languages.

Free‑to‑air sublicensing and national broadcasters

Although New World TV controls pay‑TV rights, FIFA mandates that 34 matches be sublicensed for free-to‑air viewing across 43 sub‑Saharan territories. DR Congo is again included in this list. That means selected matches—such as the opening game, semi‑finals and final—will be broadcast on a national television station. Past tournaments saw local public channels partner with rights holders. Keep an eye on announcements from Radio Télévision Nationale Congolaise (RTNC) or another local broadcaster for the free match schedule.

SuperSport and English‑language coverage

SuperSport, the pan‑African network owned by MultiChoice, has been a key rights holder for African football. The network secured exclusive rights to the remaining African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. During the previous World Cup, SuperSport provided English‑language coverage while New World TV covered French‑language rights. It’s likely that SuperSport will show the tournament on its DStv platform in DR Congo. Subscriptions vary by package, so fans should check with local providers.

Streaming and digital platforms

New World TV’s mobile app

New World TV offers an app that streams its channels on mobile devices. Subscribers can watch live matches, highlights and replays. The app supports payments via mobile money and card. To ensure smooth streaming, choose a reliable internet connection and plan for sufficient data usage. The app is ideal for viewers without a satellite dish or those who prefer watching on the go.

DStv Stream and Showmax Pro

DStv Stream is a service that allows existing DStv subscribers to stream SuperSport channels online. You can watch matches on smartphones, tablets or smart TVs. Showmax Pro is another streaming service that bundles live sports with movies and series. It offers SuperSport feeds and works without a satellite dish. Subscriptions are monthly and can be cancelled after the tournament. However, streaming requires stable internet.

FIFA+ and other free streams

FIFA’s digital platform, FIFA+, provides free content, including highlights, replays and documentaries. Because New World TV and SuperSport hold broadcast rights, FIFA+ may not stream every match in DR Congo. Nonetheless, it is a good source for match summaries and behind‑the‑scenes coverage. If you travel abroad or use a VPN, you might access international broadcasters like BBC or ITV, which stream matches for free. Always ensure that your viewing method complies with local laws.

Tips for viewers in DR Congo

1. Arrange subscriptions early. Subscribe to New World TV or DStv well before the tournament. This gives time to set up equipment and resolve issues.
2. Check your equipment. For satellite viewing, ensure your dish and decoder are properly installed. Update any firmware on your decoder.
3. Monitor match schedules. Mark important fixtures, especially if you support neighbouring teams or African giants. Matches will occur across multiple time zones.
4. Plan your data usage. Streaming high‑definition football consumes significant bandwidth. Choose data bundles that match your viewing habits.
5. Look out for free matches. The free‑to‑air schedule will include 34 matches. Gather family or friends to enjoy these games without subscription costs.

Viewing options in DR Congo

Option	Platform	Access	Cost	Notes
New World TV satellite	Pay‑TV channels	Satellite dish + decoder	Subscription	Exclusive rights for all matches
National free‑to‑air TV	Public broadcaster	Antenna	Free	Selected matches sublicensed across 43 territories
SuperSport on DStv	Pay‑TV channels	DStv satellite	Subscription	English‑language coverage; holds qualifier rights
New World TV app	Streaming app	Internet connection	Subscription	Streams all matches; payment via mobile money
DStv Stream / Showmax Pro	Streaming apps	Internet connection	Subscription	Streams SuperSport channels; no dish required
FIFA+	Streaming platform	Internet connection	Mostly free	Highlights and selected content; may have geo‑restrictions

Frequently asked questions

Conclusion

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, fans in DR Congo have several ways to watch the tournament. New World TV will broadcast every match via satellite and its mobile app, while SuperSport on DStv offers English‑language coverage. Free‑to‑air broadcasts of selected matches will also be available thanks to FIFA’s sublicensing requirement. By choosing the option that fits your needs and preparing early, you can enjoy every moment of football’s biggest event. Gather your friends, set your schedules and get ready to cheer for your favourite teams as the tournament returns bigger than ever. Check Also: Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live in Central African Republic