The World Cup final will be broadcast by both the BBC and ITV, who will go head-to-head for coverage of the match between Spain and Argentina at the MetLife Stadium. This marks the final contest for the two broadcasters who have alternated games throughout the tournament.
As has been the tradition for the past 60 years, both channels, BBC One and ITV1, will screen the final. The match is set to feature a clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, and an attempt by the defending champions to become one of the few nations to win back-to-back World Cups.
Broadcast Details
Coverage for the final is set to begin at 7 p.m. BST on both BBC and ITV, offering one hour of pre-match build-up. This coincides with the tournament's closing ceremony, which is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. BST.
For the first time in World Cup history, a half-time show will be featured, leading to an interval expected to exceed 20 minutes. Both broadcasters plan to show performances from artists including Shakira, Madonna, and Justin Bieber. Given the inclusion of two three-minute hydration breaks, the total duration of the match, including potential extra time, could reach 160 minutes. The BBC plans to conclude its coverage at 11 p.m. BST, with ITV finishing 15 minutes later, though these times are subject to change.
Presentation and Punditry
Gabby Logan will present the BBC's coverage from within the MetLife Stadium. This follows a period where the BBC broadcasted from Salford. For ITV, Mark Pougatch will present from their Brooklyn studio, with Laura Woods and Karen Carney broadcasting from within the stadium.
The BBC's punditry team for the final will consist of former England players Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, and Joe Hart. They have developed a rapport during the tournament. Kelly Somers is expected to be the pitchside reporter, and Guy Mowbray will provide commentary alongside former England captain Alan Shearer.
ITV's punditry team includes Roy Keane, Ian Wright, and Gary Neville. The commentary team for ITV will be led by Sam Matterface, accompanied by Lee Dixon and Ally McCoist. Neither broadcaster will feature pundits from Spain or Argentina for this final, as Cesar Azpilicueta and Juan Mata, who previously appeared for the BBC and ITV respectively, have not been selected for this match.