Football fans in Colombia will have a new way to experience the excitement of the 2026 World Cup. The cinema chain Royal Films announced a partnership with DirecTV to broadcast several tournament matches in movie theaters across more than 32 cities nationwide, turning giant screens into venues for following the competition’s most important games.
The initiative will allow thousands of fans to enjoy Colombia national team matches and other major tournament fixtures in spaces designed to offer an immersive experience similar to being inside a stadium. Thanks to the DSports signal, attendees will be able to watch the games with high-quality visuals and surround sound, an effort aimed at transforming movie theaters into collective gathering points during the tournament.
Among the confirmed matches to be shown are Colombia’s group-stage games against Uzbekistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Portugal. In addition, the schedule will include other relevant World Cup matches depending on the official calendar and broadcast availability.
The proposal comes at a time when large sporting events continue to establish themselves as shared entertainment experiences. For the film industry, the World Cup also represents an opportunity to attract new audiences and diversify the traditional use of movie theaters.
Movie theaters across Colombia will experience the 2026 World Cup
Royal Films explained that the broadcasts will aim to recreate the atmosphere of a football stadium through large-format audiovisual technology. The screenings will feature giant screens, surround sound systems, and spaces designed so attendees can experience each match together as a community.
The strategy responds to an international trend in which fans prefer enjoying major sporting events in collective spaces outside their homes. In several countries, movie theaters have begun broadcasting sports finals, concerts, and international competitions as an alternative form of entertainment.
In Colombia, the initiative also seeks to expand access to the World Cup experience in regions where large public viewing spaces are not always available. For that reason, Royal Films confirmed the development of a project called “Cinema Tour,” through which special broadcasts will be brought to municipalities and areas with limited access to audiovisual events.
In addition to movie theaters, some local governments and event centers are working on partnerships to enable public spaces where massive screenings can be held during the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup will drive new entertainment experiences
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be one of the largest editions in the tournament’s history. The championship will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and will feature an expanded format with 48 national teams, increasing both the number of matches and fan expectations.
Entertainment companies have already begun developing new ways for audiences to consume football-related content, especially since major sporting events tend to significantly boost spending in public spaces and leisure-related establishments. Now, movie theater chains are looking to position themselves as a competitive alternative for those who want to experience the World Cup outside their homes.