As a phone-first event for millions of fans across the globe, you could even say the World Cup will be more mobile than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Jokes aide, the wide spread of kick-off times due to games being held in different time zones and the potential for last-minute schedule changes caused by extreme weather means there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to watch all the games that matter to you from your favorite spot on the couch.
Whether it’s on the bus, in bed or at your desk – just be discreet, we don’t want you to get into trouble – this is a World Cup you’re going to have looking at your phone whether you like it or not.
Read on as we break down a few tips that will take the pain out of the situation.
Best FIFA World Cup 2026 apps
Here are the best apps to watch World Cup 2026 on your phone:
Abroad? The best VPN app for World Cup 2026
If you’re traveling, you may find that your usual WC coverage is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, this is exactly where a VPN app can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world, so you can safely access your usual VM coverage as if you were back at home.
We recommend Norton VPN. Here’s why:
Watch WC 2026 on your phone – frequently asked questions
How much phone data will I need to watch the World Cup 2026?
A 90-minute soccer game will burn through about 700MB at SD streaming quality, 1.5GB to 3GB at HD, and 3GB to 5GB at Full HD.
These are estimates, meaning real-world figures could be higher, especially when you factor in stoppages in play, VAR reviews and time-wasting regulations, let alone extra time and penalties.
Unless you have an unlimited data plan, we’d recommend that you save the vast majority of your VM streaming when connected to a Wi-Fi network.
It can’t be helped when you’re on the go, and in that case it’s worth sacrificing image quality. Just dive into your settings to make any adjustments.
You can also set data alerts and limits that make it easy to track how much you’re getting through.
If you’re abroad and don’t have roaming built into your plan, consider an eSIM. More details in the next section.
How do I avoid expensive roaming charges?
If you have a holiday or work trip planned this summer, especially if it is to a country where you are roaming isn’t it covered by your mobile operator, an eSIM is essential – whether you plan to stream World Cup matches or not.
eSIMs are basically short-term, international mobile data contracts.
They’re highly customizable, and even the more expensive unlimited and all-inclusive plans cost far less than what you’d otherwise pay for just a few minutes of basic web browsing and messaging.
Most of all, eSIMs give you peace of mind. The fact that you can buy one online and skip the hassle of hunting for a local SIM card also makes them really convenient.
Right now, we rate Ubigi, Saily and Airalo as the best eSIMs for international travel.
How do I extend my phone’s battery life?
The last thing you want when a crucial game is on the line is for your phone battery to give out.
Only you know if your handset is up to the task of streaming a World Cup game in its entirety, but in case it falls short, you can disable notifications, prevent other apps from running in the background, turn off visual effects and, when things get desperate, lower the screen brightness.
However, the most effective step you can take is to invest in a good portable charger. They are inexpensive and should serve you for years.
Can I watch the 2026 World Cup live on the FIFA app?
The FIFA app will not provide live coverage of World Cup games, but it will feature scores, matches, news, analysis, polls and quizzes.
FIFA+, meanwhile, has now rolled into DAZN. The channel allows you to watch archive footage from previous World Cups.
We test and review VPN services for legitimate recreational use. For example: 1. Accessing a Service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that Service). 2. Protecting your online security and enhancing your online privacy when you are abroad. We do not support or condone illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consumption of paid-for pirated content is neither endorsed nor endorsed by Future Publishing.
