TVJ launches FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage at Mandela Park

Television Jamaica used a live event at Mandela Park in Half-Way Tree to roll out its FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage, ahead of the tournament’s opening match next Thursday. The broadcast team said coverage will begin at midday, with build-up to the opening ceremony at 12:30 p.m. before Mexico face South Africa at 2 p.m.

The tournament runs until July 19 and will feature 104 matches across three host countries. TVJ said it will carry free-to-air coverage in Jamaica, with matches also available through Fame FM and OneSpot Media locally. The network stressed that its World Cup rights apply within Jamaica.

Ricardo Chambers, producer and host of TVJ’s World Cup 2026 coverage, said the production will focus on both information and entertainment. He described the event as a major undertaking, with attention being placed on talent, storytelling and the viewing experience. He said the earliest live matches on TVJ’s schedule are set for 10 a.m., while some games could start as late as 11 p.m.

The launch also featured football talk, skills challenges, quizzes, giveaways and performances. Fans debated favourites for the tournament, with France, Spain, Argentina, Portugal and Brazil among the teams discussed. Chambers said he saw France and Spain as leading contenders, while noting that defending champions Argentina could not be dismissed.

Brazil’s prospects drew extended discussion, including concern about their group with Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. The hosts also reflected on Jamaica missing out on qualification and the financial value that a World Cup place would have brought to the national programme.

The event closed with music from Diani, who promoted his second album, Live Life and Prosper, and performed a piece from his new single Journey.