FIFA has announced that the 2026 World Cup will become the first edition of the tournament to feature live sign language interpretation broadcasts for every match, in a major step toward improving accessibility for fans with disabilities.
According to a statement published on its official website on Friday, the initiative is part of FIFA’s broader commitment to ensuring that all supporters—whether attending matches in stadiums or watching remotely—can fully experience the tournament.
“FIFA is dedicated to making sure that all fans, including those with disabilities and their families and friends, have an excellent experience at this year’s FIFA World Cup,” the governing body said.
The expanded accessibility package builds on measures introduced during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which included sensory bags and audio-descriptive commentary for visually impaired fans. For the 2026 tournament, FIFA is adding further enhancements such as tactile boards and expanded sensory support services across venues.
A key highlight of the new initiative is the introduction of live sign language broadcasts for every match. FIFA said the service is designed to go beyond basic translation by delivering an immersive viewing experience that captures the full atmosphere of the game.
“Sign language commentary goes beyond standard interpretation. It provides an immersive experience for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing fans by translating the full energy of the game,” the statement added.
According to FIFA, sign language interpreters will not only translate play-by-play action but also convey emotional and environmental cues such as referee whistles, crowd reactions, and shifts in stadium atmosphere.
The organization also outlined regional language coverage for the tournament. Matches in the United States and Canada will feature American Sign Language (ASL), while games in Mexico will use Mexican Sign Language (LSM). During the knockout stages, ASL will be used for most fixtures, with LSM provided for selected matches involving Spanish-speaking teams.
Fans will be able to access the service through the official FIFA World Cup app by selecting their stadium, navigating to the “Accessibility Services” section, and activating the “Sign Language” option to access a dedicated broadcast feed.
FIFA said the move reflects its long-term commitment to inclusion in football, ensuring the World Cup remains accessible to the widest possible global audience.