NBC Bay Area in San Francisco is initiating the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a special countdown program scheduled for December 6, 2025. KNTV will premiere “Countdown to FIFA World Cup 2026,” a half-hour special that celebrates the “passion, history and future of soccer in Northern California,” on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. The program, hosted by NBC Bay Area’s Raj Mathai and Gia Vang, marks approximately six months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup arrives in Santa Clara, where Levi’s Stadium will be the venue for several matches.
The program explores the Bay Area’s influence on the sport, highlighting the local community and youth clubs, MLS stadiums and international competition, through the voices of prominent figures. “As the excitement builds toward 2026, we’re focused on giving fans comprehensive and engaging World Cup coverage across every platform,” said Stacy Owen, president and general manager of NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48.
The special focuses on the players, defining moments that shaped the Bay Area’s soccer culture and the growing anticipation as international competition prepares to take center stage in Santa Clara. Featured interviews include: Team and Bay Area soccer leaders who discuss the rise of the women’s game and the region’s newest NWSL club. “We’re proud to lead the region’s coverage and give fans unrivaled access to one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.”