FIFA has made a big announcement: TikTok is now the first “preferred platform” for video content during the men’s FIFA World Cup 2026. This special agreement will run until the end of 2026. It will help bring the World Cup closer to millions of fans, especially younger people who love short videos on their phones.

This is the first time FIFA has picked one social media app like this for a men’s World Cup. The deal builds on a successful partnership from the 2023 Women’s World Cup, which got billions of views.

What Does the Deal Include?

TikTok will have a special World Cup 2026 hub inside the app. This hub will be like a central place where fans can:

Watch highlights and special clips. Find information about tickets and how to watch matches. Use fun things like custom stickers, filters, and games.

For the first time, official TV partners (the ones with full broadcast rights) can show live parts of matches directly on TikTok. They can also post more short clips and use special content made by FIFA just for the app.

A selected group of creators and influencers from around the world will get exclusive access. They can go to press conferences, training sessions, and behind-the-scenes moments. They will also be able to use FIFA’s old videos to make new content.

TikTok says fans who watch sports videos on the app are 42% more likely to tune in to watch full live matches. This could help bring more people to the real games on TV.

Why This Matters for Business

This partnership is great for both sides. TikTok gets to be a key player in big sports events and attract more users. FIFA wants to reach as many fans as possible and make the World Cup the most inclusive event in soccer history.

Broadcasters can make money by showing ads on TikTok during their World Cup coverage. TikTok will also help protect FIFA’s videos from illegal sharing.

James Stafford, TikTok’s global head of content, said: “Football has grown a lot on TikTok in recent years. We are excited for fans to enjoy the World Cup 2026 beyond just the 90 minutes of a game, with exclusive content and special access for creators.”

FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström added: “We want to share the excitement of the World Cup with everyone. TikTok is the best way to do this for the biggest sports event in history.”

The 2026 World Cup will have 48 teams and 104 matches. It will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

This deal shows how soccer and social media are coming together more than ever. Fans get more fun ways to follow the tournament, and the sport reaches new people everywhere.