With a little more than a month until kickoff on June 11, Telemundo is bolstering its coverage team for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The network, which has held the exclusive U.S. Spanish-language broadcasting rights since the 2018 tournament in Russia, is preparing for its most expansive presentation of the multi-country event, bringing on board high-profile figures from the sport to its coverage team.
The first group of fútbol legends and experts joining Telemundo’s coverage team across the United States, Canada, and Mexico includes former Mexico captain Andrés Guardado, Real Madrid icon Guti, and renowned Argentine coach José Pékerman. They are joined by former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia and Panama’s legendary striker Julio César Dely Valdés.
Each brings a distinct perspective. Guardado, known as “El Principito,” will offer insight from five World Cup appearances and nearly two decades with Mexico’s national team.
Guti adds the perspective of a midfielder who won 15 major titles with Real Madrid. Pékerman arrives with coaching experience leading both Argentina and Colombia, while Valencia and Dely Valdés bring years of leadership at the highest levels of club and international play.
Telemundo said this announcement is the first in a series of talent reveals planned for the coming weeks, with more high-profile names expected to join the roster.
700 Hours, 104 Matches
Telemundo, which launched its one-year countdown to the tournament last year, has announced extensive plans for the event held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico through July 19.
The network will broadcast 700 hours of World Cup programming, the most ever for a Spanish-language presentation in the United States. Its coverage includes all 104 matches live, with 92 airing free over-the-air on Telemundo and 12 on Universo, marking the most matches ever aired on a U.S. broadcast network regardless of language.
Every match will also stream live on the Telemundo App and on Peacock for Premium and Premium Plus subscribers. Production teams will be live on-site at all 104 games across the three host nations, providing real-time coverage from every stadium.
“The FIFA World Cup is the ultimate stage for the sport, and our goal is to deliver coverage that matches its magnitude with authenticity, expertise, and cultural connection,” said Joaquín Duro, EVP of Sports and Head of Streaming at NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises.
