Spain and Argentina are set to compete in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, with both the BBC and ITV providing live television coverage in the UK. This marks a continuation of their alternating broadcast schedule throughout the tournament, a practice held for the past 60 years.
Coverage for both channels will commence at 7 p.m. BST, one hour before the scheduled kick-off. This precedes the tournament's closing ceremony, which is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. BST and will feature performances from artists including Tom Cruise, iShowSpeed, and Robbie Williams.
For the first time in World Cup history, a half-time show will be included, which is expected to extend the interval to over 20 minutes, potentially exceeding the game's regulations. Both broadcasters will feature performances from artists such as Shakira, Madonna, and Justin Bieber during this Super Bowl-style show. The extended interval, combined with two three-minute hydration breaks and potential extra time, could lead to a total match duration of up to 160 minutes. The BBC plans to conclude its broadcast at 11 p.m. BST, while ITV will end its coverage 15 minutes later, though these times are subject to change.
Commentary and presentation teams will differ between the two broadcasters. The BBC's coverage will be anchored by Gabby Logan from within the MetLife Stadium. The BBC's punditry team includes former England players Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, and Joe Hart, who have worked together throughout the tournament. Guy Mowbray and Alan Shearer will form the commentary pairing.
ITV's main presentation will come from their studio in Brooklyn, with Mark Pougatch leading the broadcast, complemented by a studio backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. Laura Woods and Karen Carney will report from within the stadium. The ITV punditry panel consists of Roy Keane, Ian Wright, and Gary Neville. Sam Matterface, Lee Dixon, and Ally McCoist will handle commentary for ITV.
Neither broadcaster will feature a pundit with direct ties to either Spain or Argentina for the final. Former analysts Cesar Azpilicueta (BBC) and Juan Mata (ITV) will not be part of the final broadcast teams.