DOJ Shuts Down Illegal World Cup Streaming Sites

In a significant enforcement action, the U.S. Department of Justice announced on June 26, 2026, the seizure of nearly 400 internet domains. These domains were allegedly used for the real-time illegal streaming of FIFA World Cup matches, violating U.S. copyright law.

"Operation Offsides," an international effort led by the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, targeted networks profiting from the global demand for the World Cup. Law enforcement actions extended to Peru and Bulgaria, with additional disruptions in Croatia, Romania, Poland, and Colombia. The DOJ emphasized the U.S.'s responsibility as a host nation to safeguard the tournament from illicit activities.

Beyond copyright infringement, officials warned that these unauthorized streaming sites pose considerable risks to viewers. Reports indicate that such sites frequently contain malicious content, including scam ads and banking trojans, which can compromise personal and financial data. This crackdown also occurs amidst a broader fight against sports piracy, with recent disruptions targeting other major illegal streaming networks.

The complexity and cost of accessing official broadcasts contribute to the popularity of illegal streams. However, rights holders stress that piracy diverts audiences and revenue from legitimate platforms. Furthermore, the FBI had previously alerted fans to fake FIFA websites designed for ticket scams ahead of the 2026 World Cup.