The BBC is trialling a new approach to TV Licence enforcement during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with on-screen prompts appearing during matches broadcast on BBC One. The trial involves displaying a QR code and a caption that reads: “Buy a TV licence. Scan the QR code.” This pop-up appears as the tournament takes place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The initiative has drawn attention from viewers, with commentator Guy Mowbray referencing it during a broadcast, stating: “A handy reminder that to enjoy the World Cup, you need a TV Licence. If yours needs renewing, you can scan the code that’s on your screen now to do so.”
The BBC confirmed to Birmingham Live that the reminder is part of a small, limited trial. However, the move has sparked criticism on social media. One X/Twitter user commented: “The constant reminders of the TV licence is new to this World Cup and shows how desperate they are. People are leaving in droves.” Another added: “I don’t think they expect to get any extra revenue whatsoever by advertising the TV Licence, they just want to make a political point that you’re watching World Cup football courtesy of the BBC & your licence. I agree it is annoying. Very annoying!!”
The trial comes amid broader changes at the BBC, including cuts to popular shows and reforms affecting Radio 4, BBC One, and BBC Two. The new director-general, Matt Brittin, outlined these changes in a memo to staff earlier this week, with hundreds of roles expected to be eliminated as part of the shake-up.
A TV Licensing spokesperson said: “We regularly test new ways of supporting people to get and stay correctly licensed.”
Tonight’s kick-off is at 8pm with the United States, the hosts, facing Australia. England next plays next week on Tuesday night against Ghana, followed by a 10pm clash with Panama next Saturday night, after beating Croatia 4-2 in their opening Group L match.
