CN
FREE TO AIR
China
FREE TO AIR CONFIRMED

Watch 2026 World Cup
in China

Confirmed since reporting; CMG/CCTV all platforms (verify near kickoff)

Where to watch in China

UPDATED 2026-05-05
CCTV
App: CCTV
Free matches
104
Free streaming
CCTV
Coverage
FREE TO AIR
VPN NEEDED FOR TRAVELLING FANS

Away from China? Keep watching.

CCTV geo-block outside China. A VPN connects you to a China server — your home stream works as normal.

01
Pick a VPN
NordVPN is our top pick.
02
Connect to China
Choose a server from the app.
03
Sign in & stream
Opens your broadcaster as normal.
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Frequently asked questions

Is the 2026 World Cup free in China?
Yes — all 104 matches are free to air in China via CCTV. No subscription needed.
How do I watch China's coverage from abroad?
Connect a VPN to a China server before opening your broadcaster's app or website. Your home stream will work exactly as it does at home — geo-blocks are bypassed, logins work normally. We recommend NordVPN (rated 4.8/5, from $3.39/mo).
What app can I use to stream the World Cup in China?
CCTV is the main free streaming option in China.

Other countries in Asia & Pacific

Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Indonesia All 78 nations →
📅 Full match schedule → 🔒 Best VPNs for the World Cup →