Joe Wicks, known as The Body Coach, has asked British Airways to broadcast the England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final match during his flight on Wednesday evening. Wicks, 40, inquired on X (formerly Twitter) if the game would be available as in-flight entertainment, as his flight's timing coincides with the match's kickoff.
British Airways responded that they are unable to stream live sporting events due to legal reasons, suggesting that the airline does not possess the necessary broadcast licensing rights for international airspace. The airline offered to keep passengers informed of the score. Wicks expressed his disappointment with the response.
Kirstie Allsop proposed alternatives to Wicks, including using a VPN to listen to the match on the radio via BBC Radio 5 Live, utilizing the FOTMOB app, or traveling to Atlanta to watch with her. The legal restrictions cited suggest that while a broadcaster may have rights within the UK, these do not extend to international flights.
Viewing Plans in the UK
Meanwhile, millions in the UK are expected to watch the match from their homes or in public venues. Should England advance to Sunday's final, the O2 Arena in London is prepared to host a large-scale viewing event for up to 20,000 fans, similar to its role during the Euro 2024 final. However, some fans have voiced frustration over the lack of organized public screenings in the capital for Wednesday's semi-final.
Critics have pointed out that other European countries frequently arrange large public viewings in squares and parks, a practice they feel is lacking in the UK. A Reddit user questioned why large-scale public screenings are not more common in London.
The notes recall a 2018 World Cup semi-final where Hyde Park hosted a 30,000-capacity screen. This event was facilitated because the park had no other scheduled functions at the time and its use for large events was already established. This year, however, the park's summer series had concluded, and there was insufficient time to organize a similar event safely, especially as England's semi-final spot was only confirmed recently.
A spokesperson for the Mayor's office stated that while there are no specific plans for a public screening of the Argentina match, the Mayor hopes the team will win. Instead, Londoners are encouraged to support the hospitality industry by watching the game in pubs, clubs, and bars.
Should England win and reach the final, extensive celebrations are being planned for London on Tuesday, July 21. It is understood that City Hall, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Westminster City Council, and the Football Association would collaborate on what could be the largest sporting celebration in UK history. The final is scheduled to begin in New York at 8 p.m. UK time.