Scotland men's national team matches to be free-to-air

The Scotland men's team qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup are heading to free-to-air TV.

UEFA has agreed a deal with BBC Scotland to broadcast 14 live matches, including the upcoming Nations League play-off ties with Greece and the European Qualifiers Group C ties against Belarus, Greece and either Portugal or Denmark.

June friendlies against Iceland and Liechtenstein will also be shown on BBC One Scotland and BBC iPlayer, with the new partnership replacing Viaplay who previously held the rights.

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive: “We are delighted that BBC Scotland has come to agreement with UEFA for the rights to televise our Scotland Men’s National Team on a free to-air basis.

“It complements their existing coverage of the Scotland Women’s National Team and, beyond that, their overall commitment to the domestic game in this country.

“We thank Viaplay for their support to this point. When it became apparent the rights could become available, we championed the potential for free-to-air coverage to reach as many Scotland supporters as possible and we are grateful that BBC and UEFA could reach agreement.

“Steve Clarke and the squad are heading into an exciting period – with the UEFA Nations League Group A/B Play-Off this month against Greece, two friendlies in June and a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign to look forward to. It’s great to have BBC Scotland supporting us for every kick of the ball.”

The BBC’s broadcast agreement also includes Wales and Northern Ireland men’s international matches - the first time the broadcaster has secured live rights for all three of the UK’s devolved nations.

Hayley Valentine, Director BBC Scotland, said: “I’m so excited that millions of Scotland fans will now be able to enjoy free-to-air access to all Scotland’s international matches. Bringing our audience together is at the heart of BBC Scotland’s work and I know nothing ignites passion here more than live international football.

“We’ve been working on this agreement since I started as Director last Autumn and it was crystal-clear from day one that people across Scotland wanted to see their national team back live on free-to-air television. I’m delighted we’ve been able to deliver.”

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