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BBC to offer limited Rugby League World Cup coverage as last-minute deal announced amid fan backlash

Just over 24 hours before the Rugby League World Cup starts, a limited broadcast deal for the BBC has been announced amid fan backlash that there was no free-to-air coverage of the tournament. The BBC have long been the broadcasters…

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 9:48 AM
BBC to offer limited Rugby League World Cup coverage as last-minute deal announced amid fan backlash
Key Things to Know
  • The BBC has secured a late deal to provide radio commentary and iPlayer highlights for the World Cup.
  • No live television coverage will be shown on the BBC during the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
  • Premier Sports retains exclusive live UK and Ireland broadcasting rights on its paid subscription platform.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The BBC has secured a last-minute broadcast deal to air limited coverage of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup following significant public backlash. Under the agreement, the broadcaster will provide radio commentary via BBC Radio 5 Live and show match highlights on BBC iPlayer, though it will not broadcast any live television coverage of the tournament.

The tournament's primary live broadcasting rights in the UK and Ireland remain with Premier Sports, a subscription platform charging £18.99 monthly. International Rugby League announced the arrangement just over 24 hours prior to the tournament's opening match between Australia and New Zealand.

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