2026 FIFA World Cup South America Tv Channels Broadcast Guide & Match Schedules
The 2026 FIFA World Cup South America broadcast landscape includes free-to-air coverage on major networks like Globo (Brazil), TyC Sports and TV Pública (Argentina), and Caracol/RCN (Colombia), plus paid streaming options through platforms such as Globoplay, Star+, and DGO. Most South American countries secured comprehensive broadcast rights packages that include Spanish and Portuguese commentary, with matches airing primarily in Eastern and Central time zones due to the tournament’s North American venues. Viewers can access both traditional cable/satellite broadcasts and digital streaming services, though specific availability and pricing vary by country.
2026 FIFA World Cup South America Tv Channels
- Free-to-air broadcasters in major South American countries secured rights to show all or most World Cup matches at no cost to viewers
- Cable and streaming packages typically range from $15-40 USD per month in Brazil and Argentina, with tournament-specific bundles available
- Matches will primarily air between 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM South American time zones due to the tournament’s North American scheduling
- Most countries offer Spanish or Portuguese commentary options across multiple platforms, with some providing English and indigenous language alternatives
- Recommended internet speed for HD streaming is 5-8 Mbps, while 4K quality requires 25 Mbps or higher
- Blackout restrictions are minimal for South American viewers, unlike some European and Asian markets
- Major broadcasters include Globo (Brazil), TyC Sports (Argentina), Caracol (Colombia), DirecTV Sports (regional), and Telemundo Internacional
- Accessibility features such as closed captions, audio description, and sign language interpretation are mandated in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile
What TV Channels Are Showing the 2026 World Cup in South America
Major free-to-air and cable networks across South America have secured comprehensive broadcast rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In Brazil, Globo holds primary free-to-air rights and will broadcast all matches featuring the Brazilian national team plus key fixtures, while SporTV (Globo’s cable sports channel) provides complete tournament coverage. Argentina’s coverage splits between TV Pública (free-to-air for national team matches) and TyC Sports (comprehensive cable coverage).
Regional broadcaster DirecTV Sports offers pan-South American coverage across multiple countries including Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Uruguay. This makes it a consistent option for viewers with satellite or cable subscriptions throughout the continent.
Country-specific primary broadcasters include:
- Brazil: Globo (free-to-air), SporTV (cable), Globoplay (streaming)
- Argentina: TV Pública (free-to-air), TyC Sports (cable), Star+ (streaming)
- Colombia: Caracol TV and RCN (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Chile: TVN and Mega (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Peru: Latina and América TV (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Uruguay: Canal 10 (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Ecuador: TC Televisión and Ecuavisa (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Venezuela: Venevisión (free-to-air), DirecTV Sports (cable)
- Paraguay: SNT and Telefuturo (free-to-air), Tigo Sports (cable)
- Bolivia: Unitel and Bolivisión (free-to-air)
For a comprehensive overview of global broadcast arrangements, check the complete FIFA World Cup 2026 TV Coverage & Channel List.
How Much Will World Cup Broadcast Packages Cost in Brazil and Argentina
In Brazil, free-to-air coverage on Globo means viewers with basic antenna access can watch major matches at no cost. For comprehensive coverage, Globoplay’s premium tier costs approximately R$54.90 ($11 USD) per month, while SporTV through cable providers ranges from R$80-150 ($16-30 USD) monthly depending on the package.
Argentina offers similar free access through TV Pública for national team matches. Paid options include TyC Sports through cable providers at ARS 8,000-15,000 ($20-38 USD) per month, and Star+ streaming service at ARS 5,999 ($15 USD) monthly. Many providers offer World Cup promotional bundles that reduce costs by 15-25% when purchased for the tournament duration.
Cost-saving strategies:
- Purchase tournament-only packages (typically 2-3 months) rather than annual subscriptions
- Share streaming accounts with family members where terms of service permit
- Combine free-to-air coverage for your national team with paid services for other matches
- Look for promotional bundles that include multiple sports channels at reduced rates
Common mistake: Assuming you need paid services to watch your national team. Most South American countries guarantee free-to-air access to their own team’s matches through public broadcasting agreements.
Which Streaming Services Will Have Live Coverage of the Matches
Digital streaming platforms have secured significant rights across South America, offering mobile-friendly alternatives to traditional broadcast. Globoplay (Brazil) provides complete tournament access with Portuguese commentary and multiple camera angles. Star+ (Argentina, Chile, Uruguay) streams all matches with Spanish commentary and on-demand replays.
DGO (DirecTV’s streaming platform) operates across multiple South American countries and mirrors the DirecTV Sports broadcast schedule, making it valuable for viewers without satellite dishes. Claro Video offers coverage in several markets including Colombia and Peru.
Platform comparison:
| Service | Countries | Monthly Cost (USD) | Free Trial | 4K Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Globoplay | Brazil | $11 | 7 days | Yes |
| Star+ | Argentina, Chile, Uruguay | $15 | 7 days | Yes |
| DGO | Regional (10+ countries) | $18-25 | No | Select matches |
| Claro Video | Colombia, Peru, Ecuador | $12-20 | 14 days | No |
| Flow | Argentina | $20 | No | Yes |
Choose streaming if you watch primarily on mobile devices, need flexible viewing times, or want access to match replays and highlights. Traditional cable remains better for large-screen viewing with minimal buffering concerns and household sharing.
For viewers in other regions, explore options in our guides for watching in Canada or streaming in the UK.
Can I Watch the World Cup for Free Online in My Country
Yes, most South American countries provide legitimate free streaming options through their public broadcasters’ websites and apps. Globo offers free streaming of its broadcast coverage through the Globo website and app (registration required). TV Pública Argentina streams its coverage free via its website and Cont.ar platform.
Legitimate free options by country:
- Brazil: Globo website/app (registration required, geo-restricted to Brazil)
- Argentina: TV Pública website, Cont.ar app
- Colombia: Caracol Play, RCN website (select matches)
- Chile: TVN website
- Uruguay: Canal 10 website
- Ecuador: TC Televisión website
Important limitations: Free streaming typically covers only matches broadcast on free-to-air TV (national team games and select marquee fixtures), not the complete tournament. Geographic restrictions apply, requiring viewers to be physically located in the country or use the broadcaster’s official app. Video quality may be limited to 720p rather than full HD or 4K.
Avoid unofficial streaming sites that promise “free World Cup streams” as these often involve pirated content, expose devices to malware, and provide unreliable quality with frequent interruptions. The legitimate free options above provide legal, safe access without these risks.
What Time Zones Will the Matches Be Played In
The 2026 World Cup takes place across venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, meaning matches will be scheduled primarily for North American time zones. For South American viewers, this creates favorable viewing times compared to recent tournaments in Qatar (2022) or Russia (2018).
Match windows in South American time zones:
Eastern South America (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay – UTC-3):
- Early matches: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Afternoon matches: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening matches: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Late matches: 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Western South America (Colombia, Peru, Ecuador – UTC-5):
- Early matches: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon matches: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Evening matches: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Late matches: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The majority of matches will air during afternoon and early evening hours in South America, making them accessible for viewing after work or school. Weekend matches will feature more midday kickoffs. The final is scheduled for 3:00 PM Eastern Time (USA), which translates to 4:00 PM in Buenos Aires and 2:00 PM in Bogotá.
For complete match scheduling details, consult the FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule.
Is the World Cup Broadcast Different for Cable vs Streaming Viewers
Cable and streaming services often provide different viewing experiences despite showing the same matches. Cable broadcasts typically offer more stable connections with less buffering, lower latency (meaning less delay from live action), and better integration with home theater systems. Cable viewers also avoid data cap concerns that can affect heavy streaming users.
Streaming advantages include flexibility to watch on multiple devices, pause and rewind live action, access to multiple camera angles (on premium services), instant replay features, and integrated statistics overlays. Streaming platforms like Globoplay and Star+ offer condensed match replays and highlight packages that cable DVR recordings don’t automatically provide.
Key differences:
- Latency: Cable typically runs 5-10 seconds behind live action; streaming can be 20-45 seconds delayed
- Picture quality: Both offer HD and 4K, but streaming quality fluctuates with internet speed
- Simultaneous viewing: Cable allows multiple TVs with set-top boxes; streaming limits concurrent streams (typically 2-4)
- DVR functionality: Cable offers traditional recording; streaming provides cloud DVR with varying storage limits
- Commentary options: Some streaming services offer multiple commentary languages selectable in real-time; cable typically requires switching channels
Choose cable if you prioritize reliability and minimal delay (important when friends are texting about goals). Choose streaming if you value mobility, on-demand features, and multi-device access.
What Languages Will Be Available for Commentary
Spanish and Portuguese dominate South American World Cup broadcasts, but language options vary significantly by broadcaster and platform. Globo and SporTV provide Portuguese commentary for Brazilian audiences, while most other South American broadcasters offer Spanish as the primary option.
Available language options:
Brazil:
- Portuguese (primary on all platforms)
- English (available on select SporTV broadcasts and Globoplay premium tier)
Spanish-speaking countries:
- Spanish (primary on all platforms)
- English (available on DirecTV Sports premium channels and some streaming platforms)
- Portuguese (available on select cable packages with Brazilian channel access)
Indigenous and regional languages:
- Quechua commentary (limited availability in Peru and Bolivia for select matches)
- Guaraní commentary (Paraguay for national team matches)
Streaming platforms generally offer more language flexibility than traditional broadcasts. Star+ and DGO allow users to select audio tracks, typically offering both Spanish and English commentary. Globoplay premium subscribers can choose between Portuguese and English for most matches.
Accessibility note: Closed captioning is available in Spanish and Portuguese across most platforms, with Brazilian broadcasters required by law to provide captions for all live sports. Audio description services for visually impaired viewers are mandated in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile for national team matches.
For viewers seeking English commentary in South America, DirecTV Sports and premium streaming tiers provide the most consistent access, though availability varies by specific match and broadcaster discretion.
Are There Any Blackout Restrictions for South American Viewers
Blackout restrictions are minimal for South American viewers compared to other global regions. FIFA’s broadcasting agreements for the 2026 tournament prioritize broad access in participating nations’ home continents, meaning South American viewers face few geographic limitations.
Restrictions that do apply:
Geographic boundaries: Streaming services enforce country-specific access. Globoplay only streams within Brazil; Star+ Argentina content is restricted to Argentina. Viewers traveling outside their home country during the tournament may lose access to their usual streaming services.
Device limitations: Most streaming platforms limit simultaneous streams to 2-4 devices. Exceeding this triggers automatic blocking until a device is logged out.
VPN restrictions: Broadcasters actively block VPN usage to prevent geographic restriction circumvention. Attempting to access Brazilian streams from Argentina via VPN typically results in error messages or account suspension.
No match-specific blackouts: Unlike some North American sports broadcasts, South American World Cup coverage does not black out specific matches based on local team participation or venue proximity.
Workaround for travelers: Contact your streaming provider before international travel. Some services offer temporary access extensions or travel modes. Alternatively, use your provider’s mobile app with cellular data rather than foreign Wi-Fi, as this sometimes bypasses geographic checks.
Common mistake: Assuming a paid subscription guarantees access from anywhere. Always verify your service’s geographic restrictions before traveling during the tournament.
How Do I Troubleshoot Streaming Issues During World Cup Matches
Streaming problems typically stem from internet speed, device performance, or service overload during high-traffic matches. When issues occur, start with these immediate fixes before contacting support.
Step-by-step troubleshooting:
Test your internet speed at fast.com or speedtest.net. Compare results to minimum requirements (5 Mbps for HD, 25 Mbps for 4K).
Close unnecessary applications on your device. Background downloads, updates, and other streaming services consume bandwidth.
Restart your streaming device completely (not just the app). Power cycle your router by unplugging for 30 seconds.
Lower video quality manually in the app settings. Most platforms auto-adjust quality, but manual selection to 720p can eliminate buffering.
Switch to wired connection if using Wi-Fi. Ethernet cables provide more stable connections than wireless, especially during peak usage.
Clear app cache in your device settings. Accumulated data can slow performance over time.
Update your streaming app to the latest version. Broadcasters often release patches before major events.
Peak traffic solutions:
During popular matches (especially those involving Brazil or Argentina), streaming services experience heavy traffic. If problems persist after basic troubleshooting, try watching through the broadcaster’s website rather than the app, as these sometimes run on different servers. Consider starting the stream 5-10 minutes before kickoff to establish connection before peak load.
When to use cable backup: If streaming consistently fails and a match is critical, switch to cable or free-to-air broadcast if available. Many viewers maintain both options specifically for high-stakes matches.
Provider-specific issues: If problems affect only one service while others work fine, check the broadcaster’s social media for service announcements. Major platforms post updates during widespread outages.
What Internet Speed Do I Need to Stream World Cup Games in High Quality
Minimum internet speeds vary by desired video quality and the number of simultaneous streams in your household. For a single device streaming in standard definition (480p), 3 Mbps suffices, but this provides noticeably lower picture quality than modern viewers expect.
Recommended speeds by quality:
- HD (720p): 5-8 Mbps per stream
- Full HD (1080p): 8-12 Mbps per stream
- 4K/UHD: 25-35 Mbps per stream
- Multiple devices: Add requirements together plus 25% buffer
Household scenarios:
- Single viewer, HD quality: 8 Mbps minimum, 12 Mbps recommended
- Two simultaneous streams (HD): 16 Mbps minimum, 20 Mbps recommended
- Family viewing (one 4K, two HD streams): 45 Mbps minimum, 55 Mbps recommended
- 4K viewing plus general household internet use: 40 Mbps minimum, 50 Mbps recommended
Upload speed matters less for streaming consumption but affects video calls and social media posting. Most South American internet packages provide asymmetric speeds with lower upload than download rates, which is sufficient for World Cup viewing.
Test your actual speed at different times of day, especially during evening hours when neighborhood usage peaks. If your tested speed consistently falls below your plan’s advertised rate, contact your internet service provider before the tournament begins.
Bandwidth-saving tips:
- Schedule large downloads and system updates for non-match hours
- Disable automatic cloud backups during matches
- Pause other streaming services (music, background videos) while watching
- Use Quality of Service (QoS) settings in your router to prioritize streaming traffic
Choose wired connections over Wi-Fi when possible. Even with sufficient total bandwidth, Wi-Fi interference can cause buffering that wired connections avoid.
Which Countries in South America Will Have the Best Broadcast Coverage
Brazil and Argentina offer the most comprehensive broadcast coverage due to their larger media markets and historic World Cup success. Brazil’s coverage through Globo, SporTV, and Globoplay includes all 104 tournament matches with multiple commentary teams, extensive pre- and post-match analysis, and dedicated highlight shows.
Argentina’s coverage through TV Pública, TyC Sports, and Star+ similarly provides complete tournament access with robust studio programming. Both countries deploy multiple broadcast crews to North American venues, ensuring high production values.
Tier 1 coverage (all matches, multiple platforms, extensive analysis):
- Brazil
- Argentina
Tier 2 coverage (all matches, good platform variety):
- Colombia (Caracol/RCN plus DirecTV Sports)
- Chile (TVN/Mega plus DirecTV Sports)
- Uruguay (Canal 10 plus DirecTV Sports)
- Peru (Latina/América TV plus DirecTV Sports)
Tier 3 coverage (comprehensive but fewer platform options):
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Venezuela
- Bolivia
The DirecTV Sports regional network effectively equalizes coverage across multiple countries, meaning viewers in Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, and Colombia with DirecTV access receive comparable quality regardless of their country’s individual broadcast arrangements.
Production quality factors:
- Number of on-site commentators and analysts
- Studio show duration and depth
- Availability of alternative camera angles
- Quality of streaming platform interfaces
- Accessibility features (captions, audio description)
For viewers prioritizing maximum coverage and production quality, Brazilian and Argentine broadcasts set the standard. For those in other countries, DirecTV Sports subscriptions provide near-equivalent access.
Related viewing options for other regions include guides for watching in Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico.
Are There Any Accessibility Features for World Cup Broadcasts
South American broadcasters provide varying levels of accessibility features, with Brazil leading in comprehensive options due to strict regulatory requirements. Brazilian law mandates closed captions, audio description, and Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) interpretation for all live sports broadcasts on free-to-air channels.
Available accessibility features:
Closed captions/subtitles:
- Brazil: Required on all platforms (Globo, SporTV, Globoplay)
- Argentina: Available on TV Pública, TyC Sports, and Star+
- Colombia, Chile, Uruguay: Available on major broadcasters but not universally required
- Quality varies from live automated captions (with occasional errors) to professionally edited captions
Audio description:
- Brazil: Required on Globo for all World Cup matches; describes visual elements for visually impaired viewers
- Argentina: Available on TV Pública for national team matches
- Other countries: Limited availability, primarily on public broadcasters
Sign language interpretation:
- Brazil: Libras interpretation required on Globo broadcasts
- Argentina: Available for national team matches on TV Pública
- Other countries: Rare; typically limited to major matches
Adjustable audio levels:
- Most streaming platforms (Globoplay, Star+, DGO) allow separate control of commentary and stadium audio
- Useful for hearing-impaired viewers who prefer reduced commentary volume
Visual accessibility:
- High-contrast mode available on some streaming apps
- Text size adjustment for on-screen graphics on premium streaming platforms
- Screen reader compatibility varies by platform
How to activate features:
For cable/satellite: Access through set-top box accessibility menu (usually in Settings > Accessibility)
For streaming: Check app settings under Accessibility, Audio, or Subtitles
For smart TVs: Use TV’s native accessibility features in combination with app settings
Limitations: Accessibility features on streaming platforms may not work when casting to external devices. For most reliable access, use the platform’s native app on your viewing device rather than casting from a phone or tablet.
What Happens If My Local Broadcaster Loses Transmission Rights
Mid-tournament rights changes are extremely rare due to FIFA’s long-term contracts, but technical failures, bankruptcy, or regulatory issues can theoretically disrupt coverage. If your primary broadcaster experiences problems, backup viewing options exist across South America.
Immediate alternatives:
Free-to-air backup: If your cable or streaming service fails, check free-to-air channels. Most countries guarantee public access to at least national team matches, providing emergency coverage even if your primary source fails.
Regional broadcasters: DirecTV Sports operates across multiple countries. If a country-specific broadcaster fails, viewers with DirecTV/DGO access maintain coverage through the regional feed.
Neighboring country access: In border regions, viewers can often receive broadcasts from neighboring countries. For example, Uruguayan viewers near the Brazilian border may access Globo’s signal; Argentine viewers near Chile may receive TVN.
Streaming platform redundancy: Major platforms like Star+ and DGO operate under separate licensing agreements. If one service loses rights, others typically continue coverage.
Historical precedent: During the 2022 World Cup, a Peruvian broadcaster faced financial difficulties mid-tournament. FIFA worked with the country’s telecommunications regulator to ensure continued free-to-air coverage through an alternative network. Similar consumer protections exist across South America.
What to do if coverage is interrupted:
- Check the broadcaster’s official social media and website for announcements
- Verify whether the issue is technical (temporary) or contractual (potentially permanent)
- Contact your service provider for credits or refunds if paid services are affected
- Switch to free-to-air backup while resolution is pending
- Monitor news outlets for FIFA and regulatory authority statements
Consumer protections: Most South American countries have telecommunications regulators that intervene to ensure World Cup access continues. In Argentina, ENACOM; in Brazil, ANATEL; in Colombia, CRC. These agencies have authority to mandate temporary coverage arrangements if commercial broadcasters fail.
The likelihood of losing access entirely is minimal. Even in worst-case scenarios, regulatory frameworks prioritize maintaining public access to World Cup matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch World Cup matches on my phone in South America?
Yes, all major streaming platforms (Globoplay, Star+, DGO, Claro Video) offer mobile apps for iOS and Android. Free-to-air broadcasters also provide mobile streaming through their official apps, though this typically requires registration and may be geo-restricted to your home country.
Do I need a cable subscription to watch the World Cup in South America?
No, free-to-air broadcasters in every South American country will show at least their national team’s matches plus select marquee fixtures at no cost. Cable subscriptions provide access to all 104 matches and additional analysis programming but aren’t required for basic viewing.
Will there be Spanish commentary for all matches?
Yes, all Spanish-speaking South American countries provide Spanish commentary for every World Cup match through their primary broadcasters. Streaming platforms typically offer Spanish as the default audio option with English available as an alternative on premium services.
Can I record World Cup matches to watch later?
Cable subscribers with DVR functionality can record matches through their set-top boxes. Streaming services offer cloud DVR features (Globoplay, Star+) with varying storage limits. Free-to-air broadcasts can be recorded using personal video recorders or TV tuner cards, subject to copyright restrictions on redistribution.
What happens if my internet goes out during a match?
Switch immediately to free-to-air broadcast if available in your area using a TV antenna. If you have both cable and streaming, cable provides a backup that doesn’t depend on internet connectivity. Mobile data can also serve as emergency backup for streaming if your home internet fails.
Are World Cup matches available in 4K in South America?
Yes, select matches will be broadcast in 4K on Globo/Globoplay (Brazil), Star+ (Argentina), and DirecTV Sports 4K channels where available. Not all matches receive 4K production, with priority given to knockout rounds and marquee group stage fixtures. 4K availability requires compatible TV, sufficient internet speed (25+ Mbps), and premium service tier.
Can I watch matches from previous days on demand?
Most streaming platforms (Globoplay, Star+, DGO) offer full match replays available within hours of the final whistle. These typically remain accessible for 7-30 days depending on the service. Free-to-air broadcasters provide limited on-demand access, usually only for highlight packages rather than full matches.
Do streaming services offer free trials for the World Cup?
Globoplay and Star+ offer 7-day free trials; Claro Video offers 14 days. Trials can be strategically timed to cover key tournament phases, though terms of service typically prohibit repeated trial signups using different email addresses. Cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.
Will there be women commentators for the 2026 World Cup?
Yes, major South American broadcasters including Globo, TyC Sports, and Caracol have confirmed women commentators and analysts as part of their broadcast teams. This represents expanded inclusion compared to previous tournaments, with multiple women serving in lead commentary roles rather than only sideline or studio positions.
Can I watch the World Cup at work or school?
This depends on your workplace or school’s internet policies. Most streaming services work on standard networks, but some institutions block streaming video to preserve bandwidth. Free-to-air broadcaster websites may have fewer restrictions. Mobile data provides an alternative if institutional networks block streaming.
Are there any matches that won’t be available in my country?
No, FIFA’s broadcasting agreements ensure all 104 World Cup matches are available in every South American country through at least one broadcaster. While specific platform availability varies, no matches are subject to regional blackouts within South America.
What should I do if streaming quality is poor but my internet speed is good?
Try switching to a different server by logging out and back in, use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi, close all other applications and browser tabs, disable VPN if active, or switch to the broadcaster’s website instead of the app. If problems persist during peak viewing times, consider that the issue may be server-side rather than your connection.
Conclusion
The 2026 FIFA World Cup South America broadcast landscape offers unprecedented access through a combination of free-to-air television, cable networks, and streaming platforms. Viewers across the continent can choose between no-cost options for essential matches and comprehensive paid services for complete tournament coverage. Brazil and Argentina lead in production quality and platform variety, while regional services like DirecTV Sports ensure consistent access across multiple countries.
Action steps for optimal World Cup viewing:
- Verify which free-to-air channels in your country will broadcast your national team’s matches
- Test your internet speed now and upgrade if below 12 Mbps for HD streaming
- Compare streaming service free trials and schedule them to cover your priority matches
- Bookmark your chosen broadcaster’s website and download their mobile app before the tournament begins
- Confirm your viewing setup works properly by watching test content in the weeks before kickoff
- Set up backup viewing options (cable or free-to-air) in case your primary streaming service experiences issues
For comprehensive tournament planning, review the complete FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule and explore additional viewing guides for specific countries and platforms. With proper preparation, South American viewers can enjoy seamless access to every moment of the 2026 World Cup from the opening ceremony through the final.
