Wayne Rooney Joins BBC Sport’s Team for 2026 FIFA World Cup Coverage

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to bring together some of the biggest names in football, not only on the pitch but also in the broadcast studio.

BBC Sport has confirmed a heavyweight punditry and presenting line-up for their coverage of the tournament, which begins on 11 June across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final scheduled for 19 July.

From their base in Salford, BBC Sport will be led by presenters Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Alex Scott, supported by a star-studded panel of former players and managers providing analysis throughout the tournament.

Wayne Rooney Included in BBC Sport World Cup Team

Among the most high-profile additions is former Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney, who will play a central role in the broadcaster’s coverage.

Wayne Rooney, who remains Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer with 253 goals in 559 appearances, brings one of the most decorated playing careers in English football into the punditry arena.

The former forward also scored 53 goals in 120 appearances for England, representing his country at multiple major tournaments and serving as captain during his international career.

His insight into England’s World Cup campaign is expected to be a major talking point given his experience at the highest level.

Rooney’s move into broadcasting follows his most recent spell in management, with his last job coming at Plymouth Argyle in the EFL Championship.

He left the club by mutual consent on 31 December 2024, bringing a difficult managerial period to a close after earlier coaching roles at Derby County, D.C. United, and Birmingham City.

Since stepping away from the dugout, Rooney has increasingly shifted toward media work, and his inclusion in BBC’s World Cup team signals a new chapter in his football journey.

Alongside pundits such as Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Ellen White, Joe Hart, Olivier Giroud, Cesar Azpilicueta, Lucas Leiva, and Thomas Frank, Rooney will provide analysis across key fixtures and storylines throughout the month-long tournament.

Away from BBC duties, Rooney will also captain the England Soccer Aid team later this year, continuing his involvement in high-profile football events.

With his Manchester United legacy still towering over English football, Rooney’s voice will once again be central to global football conversations, this time from the studio rather than the pitch.