BBC Sport NI Expands Coverage with Live Football and International Matches

Introduction: The Heart of Northern Ireland Sports Broadcasting

BBC Sport NI has established itself as Northern Ireland’s leading sports broadcaster, providing extensive coverage across multiple platforms. BBC Northern Ireland’s online service provides News, Sport, Schools, Learning and Programme information for television and radio programmes. With a strong digital presence and dedicated coverage of local football, BBC Sport NI plays a vital role in connecting fans with their favourite sports, making it an essential resource for sports enthusiasts across the region.

Live Football Coverage on BBC Sport NI

BBC Sport NI is broadcasting multiple Sports Direct Premiership matches throughout January and February 2026, including Glentoran v Cliftonville on BBC Two NI on 25 January 2026, and matches like Larne v Coleraine and Carrick Rangers v Linfield on BBC iPlayer. The broadcaster has significantly expanded its local football coverage, with BBC showing 8 live matches from the Northern Irish Premiership on TV and streaming an additional 30 live matches. This commitment demonstrates the broadcaster’s dedication to providing comprehensive access to domestic football for Northern Ireland fans.

International Football Rights Secured

In a major development for Northern Ireland football fans, the European Qualifiers for the World Cup will be shown on BBC One NI and BBC iPlayer, with key fixtures also being broadcast across the UK. This new broadcasting deal ensures that supporters can enjoy free-to-air coverage of their national team’s crucial World Cup qualifying matches. The coverage builds on BBC NI’s provision of live and pre-recorded coverage of all three major male sports in Northern Ireland – Irish League soccer, Ulster Rugby and GAA.

Multi-Platform Sports Access

BBC Sport NI has embraced digital platforms to reach wider audiences. All fixtures are broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport NI website, bringing fans closer to the action. The service’s comprehensive approach ensures that fans can access content through traditional television channels like BBC Two NI, as well as through modern streaming services. This multi-platform strategy reflects the broadcaster’s commitment to making Northern Ireland sports accessible to all fans, regardless of their preferred viewing method.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Sports Broadcasting

BBC Sport NI’s expanded coverage represents a significant boost for sports fans in Northern Ireland, offering unprecedented access to both domestic and international football. With comprehensive streaming options and enhanced broadcasting rights, the service continues to strengthen its position as the region’s premier sports broadcaster, ensuring that passionate Northern Ireland supporters never miss a moment of the action.