Voetbal International will operate around the clock during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a first for global football media coverage. The Dutch publication confirmed it will maintain continuous production from both the Netherlands and Curaçao to ensure news, updates, interviews, and analysis reach fans at any hour.
The initiative stems from a concept developed two years ago on Curaçao’s shores. With matches scheduled across multiple time zones in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Voetbal International aims to cover the tournament without interruption by leveraging its dual-location setup.
“Many matches take place in the late evening or night,” said Freek Jansen, who shares editorial leadership with Pieter Zwart. “By operating from both the Netherlands and Curaçao, we capture key time zones and deliver what Voetbal International’s audience expects, day, and night.”
The 2026 World Cup, set to run from June 11 to July 19, will feature 48 teams for the first time in the tournament’s history. This expansion increases the total number of matches to 104 across 16 host cities in the three North American countries.
Voetbal International’s Curaçao-based team will include all editorial divisions, from print and digital to video and podcast production. The outlet highlighted its multimedia approach, noting its success across platforms including its website VI.nl, YouTube shows, and popular podcasts.
In 2024, Voetbal International was named Media Brand of the Year for its integrated strategy. During the World Cup, the publication plans to maintain prominence across all channels while likewise covering regular football news alongside the tournament.
The partnership with Corendon supports the Curaçao operation, reflecting the travel company’s involvement in local football development. Jansen noted the enthusiasm for football on the island, adding that the setup allows Voetbal International to highlight how the World Cup is experienced in the Dutch Caribbean.
While the publication did not specify exact staffing numbers or technical details of its 24/7 workflow, it emphasized that the model ensures real-time delivery regardless of match timing. Games in the group stage, for example, are scheduled at various hours local time, including early morning slots in the Netherlands.
Coverage will extend beyond match reports to include background features, tactical analysis, and player interviews. Voetbal International intends to use its full editorial capacity to serve fans seeking both immediate updates and deeper context throughout the 40-day tournament.
The outlet’s Curaçao presence also aims to connect with the local fan experience, recognizing the island’s passionate football culture. This dual-perspective approach forms part of Voetbal International’s goal to provide comprehensive, globally informed coverage.
As the tournament approaches, Voetbal International’s 24/7 model represents a significant investment in continuous sports journalism. The publication positions itself as the only global football medium planning uninterrupted operation during the 2026 World Cup.
Fans can expect Voetbal International to remain active across text, video, and audio formats from June 11 through July 19, with updates originating from both European and Caribbean time zones.
For ongoing coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including match schedules, team news, and tournament developments, Voetbal International invites readers to follow its platforms throughout the event.
