Channel 4
Channel 4 is a public, free-to-air TV network in the UK. It runs several linear television channels, as well as a video-on-demand (VOD) service, also confusingly called Channel 4 (previously All 4).
Live Football on Channel 4
There is no information about transmission yet.
Alongside the BBC and ITV, it is considered one of the cornerstones of British television broadcasting.
While Channel 4 does not boast the media rights to many football competitions, it does have a few for 2026-27. These include 10 matches from the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), 6 live matches - including the final - from the Women's FA Cup.
When it comes to men's football, Channel 4's footprint is almost non-existent, but in the women's game, the broadcaster does have something to offer.
Which football competitions does Channel 4 show?
Channel 4 has the rights to broadcast live matches from the women's FA Cup and women's Africa Cup of Nations.
The best TV packages to get Channel 4
There are no TV packages necessary to watch football on Channel 4. As a free-to-air broadcaster, it can be accessed on linear television or online via live streaming, completely free.
However, all UK citizens who watch Channel 4 and other terrestrial TV channels must hold an up-to-date TV licence by law. The current cost of a TV licence is £180.00 a year.
Best Channel 4 Live Streaming Options in the UK
The Channel 4 app can be accessed on most mobile devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs and more. Desktop users can also access all the same Channel 4 content on the Channel 4 website.
However, as a terrestrial network, Channel 4 and the football it covers can also be watched on a myriad of other streaming services, both paid and free, in the UK, including NOW, Pluto TV, Freeview and more.
Remember that whatever streaming service or website you use to watch football on Channel 4, you will need a valid TV licence to do so legally.
Can You Watch Channel 4 Using a VPN?
Fans from around the world can watch football on Channel 4 on the Channel 4 website or the VOD service Channel 4 with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Even if you don’t reside in the UK, you can access Channel 4 football live streams wherever you are, with the help of a VPN.
Assuming you have checked the rules and regulations regarding VPNs where you are and done your due diligence regarding the best VPN to go with, there’s little stopping you from accessing Channel 4.
Best Channel 4 Football Pundits and Commentators
It is unknown which broadcasters Channel 4 will employ for their coverage of the women's FA Cup and women's Africa Cup of Nations this season.
Pros and Cons of Channel 4 Football
The only pro is Channel 4's new deal to show women's FA Cup and women's Africa Cup of Nations games. The cons are obvious - they have no other football to show.
FAQ: How to watch Channel 4 Football
Q. Can I watch live football on Channel 4?
A. Yes. Channel 4 has the media rights to the women's FA Cup and women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Q. Is Channel 4 catch-up free?
A. Yes. Assuming you have a TV licence, catch up on the Channel 4 VOD service is completely free and requires no subscription payments.
Q. How can I watch Channel 4 on my TV?
A. You can watch Channel 4 on almost any TV. As a terrestrial, linear television channel, it is available on any TV, smart or otherwise. You can also watch Channel 4 online on the Channel 4 VOD service.
Q. Does Channel 4 have sports?
A. Yes. Channel 4 shows live coverage of the Paralympic Games and Formula One, among other sports. They also have the media rights to a very select number of football competitions.
Q. How to watch Channel 4 football on TV?
A. Fans can watch selected football matches live on Channel 4 either on linear television or on the Channel 4 streaming service.