BBC and ITV to broadcast 2018 and 2022 World Cups

It's now just a couple of days until the 2014 World Cup kicks off in Brazil, but the BBC and ITV have already switched their attention – temporarily, of course – to the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

The pair have shared the UK's TV broadcast duties for 13 straight World Cups – beginning with the famous 1966 event – and have confirmed that'll become 14 with the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

MORE: How to watch the World Cup on TV, in 4K, online and on mobile

UK television viewers will be able to follow the action with BBC and ITV as part of a new agreement with football's world governing body FIFA, which also comprises online and radio coverage too.

This latest agreement also encompasses the 2022 World Cup, which is due to take place in Qatar – but recent developments in the media mean we probably can't say for certain that'll be the case.

MORE: Best TVs to buy in 2014

BBC director of sport Barbara Slater said: "It's fantastic news that the pinnacle event in world football will continue to be available free of charge for everyone in the UK."

ITV director of sport Niall Sloane added: "The excitement building on the eve of this summer's tournament in Brazil demonstrates how the FIFA World Cup offers a shared, collective experience for people across the UK."

MORE: ITV channels now available to Sky Go customers

By the time the 2018 tournament rolls around, the BBC will have long known the results of its Ultra HD 4K broadcast trials that are taking place from Brazil this summer – albeit in private.

When the world footballing fraternity gathers once more in four years' time, will 4K proven itself to be a winner or will it suffer the same fate as 3D? The 2014 World Cup might well have the answer.

BLOG: Will Ultra HD 4K be a winner at the 2014 World Cup?

MORE: Ultra HD 4K TV – reviews, news and everything you need to know

by Pete Hayman

Follow whathifi.com on Twitter

Join us on Facebook

Find us on Google+

Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist. 

Latest in TV Streaming Services
Cobra Kai
The 'perfect' and 'emotional' finale to Netflix's action-packed hit series is finally here
Emily in Paris
Netflix's UK prices are rising – here's how much more you'll pay
BBC
Netflix viewers may soon have to pay the BBC licence fee – and I think it's a good idea
A TV showing the new Now home page with Free Guy as the featured selection. Two people sitting in the foreground watching the TV in a modern living room environment.
Now TV to receive a major overhaul with new features and a fresh look later this month
DC League of Legends Super-Pets
This "cute superhero romp" from DC Comics arrives on Netflix just in time for family movie night
Apple Music new releases and playlists on desktop app
Hurry! Sensational streaming deal gets you six months of Apple Music for just $2.99
Latest in News
Q Acoustics 3050i
Save £650 on this five-star Q Acoustics 5.1 home cinema setup
Marantz Cinema 30 AVR
Our Award-winning reference Marantz AVR is still selling at its best price ever
Meze Audio Poet
Meze's open-back Poet cans arrive, and they want to bring your music alive
Side view of Marantz CD6007 on wooden rack with magazines in background
This Award-winning Marantz CD player is back at its Black Friday price
Sonos Arc standing on a wooden unit beneath a TV screen
Stock of the Sonos Arc is starting to dry up – but there are still savings to be found on this Dolby Atmos soundbar
A woman relaxing in an armchair clasping a mug, gazing admiringly at a yellow turntable and speakers on a hi-fi cabinet.
Pro-Ject's new hi-fi system adds a splash of colour to your listening