Reuters

Reuters Pitchside: The 2026 World Cup

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The World Cup is bigger than what happens on the field. Our global sports editors take us behind the scenes in this new show by Reuters. They'll break down the politics, culture and the business of sports as the global game finds a foothold in the USA.

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Reuters

Episodes

The World Cup’s biggest controversy yet? 10.07.2026 25:48

A red card, a phone call and a controversy that could follow FIFA beyond the final whistle. This week on Pitchside, we break down the fallout from the Folarin Balogun decision, the U.S. exit against Belgium, Argentina’s latest Messi-led escape, Erling Haaland’s Norway threat and the quarterfinal matchups still to come. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at Reuters’ World Cup photographers and the beer...

Here’s why you get nervous watching penalty shootouts at the World Cup 02.07.2026 27:38

The World Cup knockout stage is delivering late goals, major upsets and nerve-wracking penalty shootouts. Reuters Pitchside breaks down the USA’s dramatic win with 10 men after Folarin Balogun’s costly red card, and the upcoming showdown with Belgium. Plus, why England could struggle against Mexico in Mexico City, whether anyone can stop France, and how the tournament is bringing visiting fans and...

Messi makes history as the Tartan Army invades Miami and Pride takes center stage 27.06.2026 28:58

Lionel Messi rewrites World Cup history, Scotland’s Tartan Army brings the party to Miami and the Round of 32 begins to take shape. On this episode of Reuters Pitchside, Ethan Plotkin joins global sports editor Ossian Shine and global TV sports editor Ursa Presern to discuss Messi’s latest milestone, the knockout matchups to watch, FIFA’s inaugural "Pride Match," the soaring cost of following th...

Pitchside Episode 2: The stars come out to shine 18.06.2026 24:29

The World Cup’s opening week had the goals, the stars and the drama, but some of the best moments happened far from the pitch. This week, we’re diving into the moments that took over social media: from Japanese fans winning hearts by cleaning up after matches, to 'Merlin the Duck' waddling into viral fame and a cannabis shop’s World Cup-inspired bong that got FIFA’s attention. Plus, we’ll explain...

Pitchside Episode 1: The politics, the players, the stickers 12.06.2026 28:31

The World Cup isn’t just about goals - it’s about people, politics and global moments. And for Reuters, it’s about figuring out how to tell every story. On this first episode of our new Reuters show Pitchside, sports editors Ossian Shine and Ursa Presern join host Ethan Plotkin on the sidelines. Go beyond the highlights to understand the scale of the biggest World Cup in history. Plus, why is ever...