How to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live on New World TV
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest tournament ever, and fans across Sub‑Saharan Africa want to know how to watch every match. Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 on New World TV effortlessly by understanding the format, coverage rights and subscription options. New World TV holds exclusive rights in many countries, so it is essential to prepare early. This guide explains the tournament schedule, the broadcaster’s coverage, and step‑by‑step instructions to stream live matches.
Understanding the 2026 FIFA World Cup Format and Schedule
Expanded Format and Group Stage
FIFA has expanded the World Cup to 48 teams, creating a record 104 matches over almost six weeks. The draw held in December 2025 divided the qualified teams into 12 groups of four. Each team plays three group matches, and the top two teams plus the eight best third‑placed teams move to the Round of 32. Consequently, there will be more matches and more knockout rounds than previous editions.
Tournament Dates and Host Countries
The competition runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026. Mexico will host the opening match on 11 June in Mexico City, while the final takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July. Group‑stage games happen between 11 and 27 June. The knockout phase begins on 28 June and ends with the final on 19 July. Matches will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but fans in Africa can watch every minute on New World TV without travelling.
Key Dates for African Teams
At least nine African teams will qualify for this tournament. African qualifying matches have been ongoing since November 2023, ensuring strong representation in 2026. Because time zones vary between North America and Africa, matches will air between afternoon and early morning hours. Therefore, fans should consult local listings and set reminders for early kick‑offs to avoid missing key fixtures involving their national teams.
What Is New World TV? Overview and Coverage Rights
New World TV’s Partnership with FIFA
New World TV is a Togo‑based satellite broadcaster and streaming platform that operates across Sub‑Saharan Africa. In June 2025 FIFA renewed its partnership with the network, granting exclusive pay‑TV rights to all 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in 19 French‑speaking Sub‑Saharan territories. The agreement also gives New World TV the responsibility to sublicense 34 matches (one per day) for free‑to‑air viewing across 43 markets. This arrangement ensures broad access while protecting the network’s investment.
Countries With Full Coverage on New World TV
New World TV’s pay‑TV platform will broadcast every match in the following territories:
| Coverage Type | Countries |
|---|---|
| Full pay‑TV coverage (all matches) | Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritius, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Togo |
| Partial coverage via sublicensing (34 matches free‑to‑air) | Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea‑Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe. |
The first row lists the countries where New World TV will air every match via its paid platform. The second row shows the broader list where viewers can access at least one free match daily through local free‑to‑air channels; in these countries, New World TV will still offer the entire tournament on its pay‑TV and streaming services.
Partial Coverage and Free‑to‑Air Matches
In the 43 territories listed above, New World TV must sublicense 34 matches to free‑to‑air broadcasters. These games include at least one match each day, ensuring casual viewers can watch key fixtures without paying. However, most matches remain exclusive to New World TV’s pay‑TV and digital platforms. Viewers should monitor announcements from local channels for the free‑to‑air schedule and rely on New World TV for comprehensive coverage.
How to Subscribe and Watch World Cup 2026 on New World TV
Choose the Right Package (Decoder or App)
New World TV operates as both a satellite pay‑TV provider and a streaming service. Viewers can subscribe through a decoder connected to satellite dishes or via the New World TV app. Subscription packages vary by country but are designed to be affordable. Contact local telecom partners or New World TV distributors to purchase a decoder and select a World Cup package. This option suits households with televisions who prefer watching on a larger screen.
Download the New World TV App and Register
If you prefer streaming on mobile devices, download the New World TV app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. The app allows users to watch live channels, switch between channels easily, and enjoy exclusive content. Create an account, choose a World Cup subscription, and log in on your smartphone, tablet or smart TV. Although the basic app offers news and entertainment channels for free, World Cup matches require a paid subscription. Registration is quick, and payments can often be made using local mobile‑money services or bank cards.
Check for Free‑to‑Air Matches on Local Channels
Even if you do not subscribe, you can still watch 34 matches for free in your country. National public broadcasters will show one match each day, usually including opening matches, selected African team games and knockout fixtures. However, the selection varies, so consult local TV guides. For full coverage, subscribing to New World TV remains the only option in most territories.
Device Compatibility and Streaming Tips
Supported Devices
New World TV’s services work on multiple devices. You can watch through:
- Satellite decoder and TV: Ideal for households with reliable satellite connections.
- Smartphones and tablets: The New World TV app supports Android (version 11.0 and above) and iOS devices. The app also supports Chromecast, allowing you to cast matches onto larger screens.
- Smart TVs and streaming sticks: Some smart TVs allow you to install the app directly, or you can cast from your phone to the TV.
This flexibility means fans can watch at home, at work or on the go.
Internet Speed Recommendations
For streaming, a stable internet connection is critical. Aim for at least 5 Mbps for standard definition, 10 Mbps for HD, and 25 Mbps for 4K quality. Use wired connections where possible, close unnecessary applications and ensure your router is near your streaming device. Additionally, test your internet speed before the tournament to avoid buffering during live matches.
Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
Plan ahead to enjoy uninterrupted football. Download and test the New World TV app well before the tournament starts. Ensure your decoder or app subscription is active and update any software. Because matches may air late at night due to time differences, use alarms or calendar reminders. Furthermore, consider having a backup power source if power outages are common in your area.
Countries and Coverage Summary
New World TV’s rights vary by territory. The table below summarises coverage:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Full coverage | 19 countries where all 104 matches air exclusively on New World TV’s pay‑TV platform. |
| Partial coverage | 43 countries where New World TV must sublicense 34 matches for free‑to‑air broadcast. Fans can watch one match daily for free, but the entire tournament is available only through New World TV’s pay‑TV or streaming service. |
If your country is not listed, check the official broadcaster table on FIFA’s website or FWC Schedule for confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans in 19 French‑speaking Sub‑Saharan countries (including Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, DR Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritius, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles and Togo) can watch all matches exclusively on New World TV. In 43 additional territories across the region, New World TV will broadcast the entire tournament and sublicense one match per day to free‑to‑air networks.
Yes. To watch every match, you must purchase a subscription through a New World TV decoder or the official app. While 34 matches will be available free‑to‑air in some countries, full coverage requires a paid plan. Subscription prices differ by country but are generally affordable.
New World TV offers commentary primarily in French. Some programmes may include local languages or English, but the main commentary for World Cup matches will be French. Fans who prefer other languages may watch free‑to‑air broadcasts on national channels or use an alternative broadcaster if available.
New World TV is obligated to sublicense 34 matches (one per day) to local broadcasters across 43 markets. These matches often include key games such as the opener, select group matches involving African teams and some knockout games. Check your national broadcaster’s schedule to know which matches will be free.
Absolutely. The New World TV app is available on Android and iOS and lets you stream live channels, switch between them easily and access exclusive content. To watch the World Cup, download the app, register and purchase the relevant subscription. Ensure your internet connection meets the recommended speed for a smooth streaming experience.
Conclusion
The 2026 World Cup promises to be a historic tournament with 48 teams, 104 matches and unprecedented excitement. For fans in Sub‑Saharan Africa, watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 on New World TV is the most comprehensive way to follow every moment. By understanding the tournament schedule, New World TV’s coverage rights and subscription options, you can plan ahead and ensure you never miss a match. Whether you choose a satellite decoder or the convenient mobile app, New World TV brings the world’s biggest football event directly to your screen. Act early, pick the right package and enjoy an unforgettable summer of football. Check Also: How to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live in Angola
