On Thursday, FIFA announced that it has opened the bidding process for United States media rights to the 2030 World Cup, with an option to secure rights for the 2034 edition as well. The deadline for submitting bids is set for November 19.
FIFA’s press release highlighted that it welcomes “innovative approaches” to reach large audiences and noted that the decision on whether to keep the hydration breaks introduced in 2026 remains pending. Those breaks, intended to help players cope with high temperatures, also created additional advertising windows for broadcasters.
Fox has held the exclusive English‑language broadcast rights for the last three World Cups, including the 2026 edition co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Telemundo, meanwhile, has held Spanish‑language rights during that period.
Spain, the 2026 World Cup winner, will co‑host the 2030 tournament with Portugal and Morocco, while Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will also stage matches to celebrate the centenary. Saudi Arabia is slated to host the 2034 World Cup.
FIFA Chief Business Officer Romy Gai told reporters that the governing body is still evaluating the hydration breaks. She said, “If the average temperature will be higher than the normal average in these countries we expect to confirm having the hydration break, but not automatically.” Gai added that the final decision would involve further engagement with all stakeholders.
According to FIFA, the 2026 World Cup averaged 13.5 million viewers per match on linear and streaming platforms in the United States, a 166% increase over the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Earlier this week, Netflix announced it had secured the rights to broadcast the 2030 World Cup in Spain and Andorra. The Saudi climate may push FIFA to hold the 2034 tournament in the Northern Hemisphere winter, similar to the 2022 Qatar event, though Gai said that the matter has not yet been officially discussed.
Gai noted that while it is a possibility to stage the 2034 World Cup in November‑December instead of the traditional June‑July slot, it is not yet confirmed. She said, “It’s too early for that. But this is something that we are concretely considering.” The decision will be further assessed and shared with bidders when the time comes to analyze how to play the World Cup in 2034.
What to watch: Bidders will need to submit proposals by November 19, and FIFA will announce its decision on the hydration breaks and the 2034 scheduling in the coming months.
