The BBC is introducing a "Stay Up or Catch Up" initiative for its live broadcast of England's 2026 World Cup match against Mexico. The crucial last-16 tie is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 AM BST on Monday.
Live coverage will be exclusively aired on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with host Kelly Cates accompanied by former players Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, and Micah Richards. For those unable to stay awake for the early morning kickoff, the BBC will provide a spoiler-free rerun of the game on BBC Two starting at 7:10 AM BST. Additionally, a full replay of the match will be accessible on demand via BBC iPlayer from 6:00 AM BST.
Fans will also have access to live radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. Complementary live text coverage and in-match clips will be available across the BBC Sport website and app. An extended 15-minute highlights program is planned for BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport Football YouTube channel. The match will also be featured within the BBC Sport's World Cup 3D experience.
"World Cup knockout football is absolutely unmissable, but a 1:00 AM kick-off isn't realistic for everyone," stated Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC director of sport. "We wanted to make sure there was an option for those fans who just can't stay up to experience one of England's biggest matches live."
Kay-Jelski added, "So, whether you're staying up to watch every minute live or waking up to catch every moment spoiler-free, BBC Sport has you covered this Monday. From our exclusive live broadcast to our dedicated catch-up experience, we're making it easier than ever for audiences to enjoy the World Cup on their terms."