The Dutch public-service broadcaster, NOS, has successfully retained the rights to broadcast the iconic FIFA World Cup matches for the upcoming 2026 and 2030 editions. This move solidifies NOS's position as a leading sports broadcaster in the Netherlands.
NOS's deal with FIFA, announced recently, ensures that it will remain the domestic home of one of football’s most prestigious tournaments. The agreement includes broadcasting rights for both the 2026 edition set to take place across Mexico, US, and Canada; and also for the 2030 tournament which is expected to be staged in six countries overall.
The coverage by NOS will span across multiple platforms including linear TV broadcasts, online streaming services as well as radio broadcasts.
The Benelux Media Rights Tender
FIFA issued its media rights tender for these two World Cups in January this year specifically targeting broadcasters within Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg - collectively known as Benelux region. The deadline was set at mid-February.
Netherlands' performance during previous tournaments has been commendable. In fact during the last edition held in Qatar (also covered by NOS), they reached up until quarter-finals before being knocked out on penalties by Argentina who eventually won that edition.
The upcoming editions are set to be hosted by multiple countries. While Spain, Portugal and Morocco form a trio hosting majority of matches during 2030 edition; Argentina Paraguay and Uruguay will each host one game respectively.
Other football broadcasting rights held by NOS
Apart from its association with FIFA World Cup broadcasting rights; NOS also holds other top-tier national team soccer rights including UEFA Euro matches where Netherlands reached semi-finals earlier this year. According to GlobalData estimates; these broadcasting rights costed around $37.5m for NOS.
However, the domestic live rights to the top-tier Eredivisie league in the Netherlands are held by ESPN, with NOS only showing highlights. In other news related to World Cup broadcasting rights; Albania's TV Klan was unveiled as holder of 2026 World Cup rights in mid-July.
Furthermore, FIFA announced a new strategy under which it would be selling its media rights directly in the Asian market for the first time for 2026 edition. This continued association between NOS and FIFA is a testament to their successful partnership and promises comprehensive coverage of these highly anticipated tournaments for soccer fans across Netherlands.
