Are you looking to watch Live Sports on BBC iPlayer in Europe? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve got you covered on how you can watch BBC iPlayer abroad following our quick steps.
BBC iPlayer is an efficient free streaming platform that covers major sports events all year round. Still, it’s currently only available in the UK due to geo-restrictions, so naturally, people abroad might wonder how they can stream their favourite sports events for free.
Well, you need not worry; we’ll help you get around the geo-restrictions so you can watch all your favourite sports events without missing out. Read our guide to find your way to watch it anywhere outside the UK.
Watch BBC iPlayer Live in Europe
Fans willing to stream BBC iPlayer in Europe must follow the steps below to access the service.
Watch BBC iPlayer Live Stream in Europe – [Real Quick]
- Get ExpressVPN Subscription.
- Download the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a server in the UK.
- Go to BBC iPlayer app.
- Watch BBC iPlayer live streams!
Why Is BBC iPlayer Not Available In Europe
BBC iPlayer access is restricted outside the UK due to rights agreements and the requirement for a UK TV license. You must be in the UK to enjoy these features, which is why it’s not available in Europe or anywhere abroad.
If you try to access BBC iPlayer outside of the UK, you will encounter an error message saying:
“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”
As the error message clarifies, this issue arises from the licensing agreements that restrict the platform’s content access to individuals within the specific geographical region. The company must abide by these agreements to avoid potentially severe consequences, such as facing hefty fines in the millions of pounds.
How to watch BBC iPlayer Abroad
As we mentioned, BBC iPlayer works without paying a subscription, although it does offer benefits with its subscription/license fee.
A free iPlayer account can be created by anyone without the requirement to provide proof of a TV license – you only need a UK address.
But iPlayer subscribers can enjoy content within the UK effortlessly. They even have the option to download shows for offline viewing from anywhere around the globe.
The BBC suggests the proper method for viewing iPlayer content abroad is to “download a program on BBC iPlayer when you’re in the UK, and you can then watch it from anywhere in the world.”
That’s a reasonable approach, but what if you’re already abroad when the next episode of your favourite show is scheduled to air? Or what if your favourite Sports is Live streaming when you’re overseas? Unfortunately, you won’t be able to live stream/download it, and you’ll have to wait until you return home.
It’s also possible that you don’t live in the UK, but you still desire to watch BBC Content. Therefore, We won’t get into the ethical aspects; we’ll outline how to accomplish it if that’s your choice.
Using a reliable VPN that is fit for streaming is the only way to access BBC iPlayer Abroad. So here’s what you can do:
- Get a VPN subscription. [One that supports Streaming]
- Download the VPN app and Connect to a Fast Server in the UK.
- You can now log in to your BBC iPlayer Account or create a new one.
- And you’re free to live to stream all your favorite sports on BBC iPlayer in Europe.
Which Sports Can I Watch On BBC iPlayer in Europe
You can watch Live Sports on BBC iPlayer in Europe. Among the most popular offerings is football, capturing the excitement and passion of the beautiful game with coverage of different leagues and tournaments.
- Motorsport fans are catered to with the high-octane thrill of Formula 1, showcasing the best single-seater auto racing worldwide. Boxing enthusiasts can look forward to some of the most significant bouts in the sport, while horse racing fans can follow the drama and spectacle of the key races.
- Cricket, a sport with a rich tradition and passionate following, is another highlight on BBC iPlayer. It delivers coverage of various international and domestic matches, including tests, ODIs, and T20s. Rugby union lovers can catch the best domestic and international matches, while golf enthusiasts can follow the major tours and championships worldwide.
- Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has also found a place on the BBC iPlayer platform, catering to a rapidly growing fan base. Tennis fans can catch the key tournaments, and athletics enthusiasts can follow top track and field events. Cycling events, including the Grand Tours, are also featured alongside the high-speed thrills of ice hockey and other motorsports.
Rugby League on BBC iPlayer
The BBC broadcasts live Rugby League matches, highlights, and other Rugby League-related shows on its TV channels and online platforms. To watch Rugby League on BBC TV, you can tune in to BBC One, BBC Two, or BBC Four, depending on the match and coverage availability. Additionally, you can watch Rugby League online through the BBC iPlayer service.
Six Nations on BBC iPlayer
Enjoy the Six Nations on BBC iPlayer, where the BBC holds exclusive broadcasting rights, providing audiences with free live coverage of all the games. Teams like England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, and Italy will take the spotlight in matches broadcasted on BBC One and the online service BBC iPlayer.
Formula 1 on BBC iPlayer
You can watch Formula 1 highlights on BBC iPlayer. The BBC broadcasts every practice, qualifying session, and race throughout the season, along with exclusive interviews and analysis. You can catch up on highlights and analysis through BBC iPlayer if you miss the race weekend.
The service also allows you to watch full race replays, available a few hours after each session for up to 30 days.
Tennis on BBC iPlayer
The BBC provides extensive tennis coverage. They also feature major tournaments like the Wimbledon Championships, the US Open, and the French Open. Fans can stay up-to-date with live matches, highlights, and analysis.
Additionally, the BBC offers amazing documentaries showcasing tennis legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and more.
Football on BBC iPlayer
If you love the English Premier League, you can watch highlights and listen to commentary on BBC iPlayer. You can also enjoy the FA Cup matches. Additionally, you can stream other football fixtures, such as the Women’s FIFA Cup and the Scottish Premiership, on iPlayer.
NBA on BBC iPlayer
BBC iPlayer has bagged rights to broadcast select NBA games on BBC iPlayer. You can watch all the slam dunks and three-pointers as they happen, from the regular season to the Finals series. BBC iPlayer’s dedicated basketball channels offer extensive coverage, including exciting highlights and detailed statistics.
Snooker on BBC iPlayer
BBC iPlayer is a preferred destination for snooker enthusiasts, providing live streaming of key matches. The platform offers front-row access to the game’s captivating nuances, enabling fans to experience every strategic move and stunning shot. Beyond just live games, BBC iPlayer enriches the viewing experience with expert commentary and insightful post-match analyses.
Which Channels are Available on BBC iPlayer
BBC iPlayer offers a wide array of channels catering to diverse viewing preferences. The primary channels include BBC One and BBC Two, which feature a broad mix of programming, from news and current affairs to entertainment shows, documentaries, and sports coverage.
The younger demographic is well-served by channels like CBBC, offering a range of children’s programming, and CBeebies, specifically tailored for the preschool audience. These channels offer educational yet entertaining content, including cartoons, drama series, and interactive shows.
BBC Three and BBC Four target a more niche audience. BBC Three is known for its original, innovative comedy, drama, and entertainment content, whereas BBC Four focuses on culture, arts, science, and history, providing more in-depth content.
For listeners who prefer radio, Radio 1 is available, providing music, interviews, and live sessions. BBC News is the go-to channel for breaking news and analysis, providing comprehensive local and international news coverage.
In addition, regional channels like BBC Scotland and BBC Alba offer content specifically focused on Scottish viewers, with BBC Alba providing Gaelic language programming. BBC Parliament is dedicated to covering live proceedings of the UK Parliament, while S4C is a Welsh language channel with a mix of news, sports, film, and children’s programming.
Sporting events are covered across these channels, with matches often broadcast live on BBC One, BBC Two, the Red Button service, or online via the BBC Sport website.
How Much Does BBC iPlayer Subscription Cost in Europe
There are several subscription packages offered by BBC iPlayer that users can choose from according to their preferences.
BBC iPlayer Subscription Cost | Price |
---|---|
BBC iPlayer Subscription | Free |
TV License (Yearly) | £159 |
TV License (Monthly) | £13.13/month |
TV License (Weekly) | £3.02/week |
Upcoming Sports Events on BBC iPlayer (Jan – Feb)
BBC Sports offers great sports content from Sport 1 and Sport 2 channels. BBC has broadcasting rights for many sports events and tournaments. Some of the popular broadcasting events for sports are:
Date | Time | Teams |
---|---|---|
16 Jan | 19:45 | Bristol City vs West Ham United |
18 Jan | 20:00 | Egypt vs Ghana |
19 Jan | 19:45 | Clyde vs Aberdeen |
19 Jan | 20:00 | Scarlets vs Edinburgh |
20 Jan | 12:15 | Spartans FC vs Hearts |
21 Jan | 12:30 | Chelsea Ladies vs Manchester United |
25 Jan | 19:45 | AFC Bournemouth vs Swansea City |
27 Jan | 12:30 | Ipswich Town vs Maidstone |
27 Jan | 12:30 | Everton vs Leicester City LFC |
27 Jan | 16:30 | Newport County or Eastleigh vs Manchester United |
29 Jan | 19:30 | Blackburn Rovers vs Wrexham |
2 Feb | 19:15 | Italy U20 vs England U20 |
2 Feb | 19:15 | Wales U20 vs Scotland U20 |
3 Feb | 20:10 | France U20 vs Ireland U20 |
4 Feb | 12:30 | West Ham United vs Arsenal |
9 Feb | 19:15 | Ireland U20 vs Italy U20 |
9 Feb | 19:15 | England U20 vs Wales U20 |
9 Feb | 20:00 | Scotland U20 vs France U20 |
21 Mar | 19:45 | Wales vs Finland |
Which devices can we use to watch BBC iPlayer
Refer to the list of devices given below to experience watching BBC iPlayer on your preferred device.
Mobile Devices | Smart TVs | Streaming Devices | Browsers |
---|---|---|---|
Android | Samsung | Chromecast | Microsoft Edge |
iOS | Panasonic | Android TV | Safari |
Falcon | Amazon Fire TV | Google Chrome | |
Vestel | Telstra TV | Firefox | |
Sony | Fetch TV | ||
LG | |||
Hisense |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is BBC iPlayer not accessible in Europe for live sports?
Due to licensing agreements and regional restrictions, BBC iPlayer is limited to streaming content within the United Kingdom, including live sports events. This means that access to BBC iPlayer’s live sports coverage is restricted outside the UK.
Are there any alternative streaming options for live sports in Europe?
Yes, other streaming platforms and broadcasters offer live sports coverage in Europe. Some popular options include Eurosport Player, DAZN, Sky Sports, and BT Sport. These services often require subscriptions or individual event purchases.
Are there any legal ways to watch BBC iPlayer’s live sports coverage in Europe?
BBC iPlayer’s live sports coverage is intended for UK residents and may not be available legally outside the UK. To access live sports legally in Europe, it is recommended to explore local broadcasters, streaming services, or official sports channels that have the rights to broadcast the events you are interested in.
How to watch Live Sports on BBC iPlayer in Europe?
You can watch Live Sports on BBC iPlayer in Europe using a VPN.