Google made several key deals to ensure its products would be integrated into the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, including sponsorships and partnerships with some of the biggest national teams – Argentina and France.
Over the last month, Google has secured a couple of partnerships with some of the most familiar teams on the World Cup stage. Google says that it has entered partnerships with France and Argentina, with more announcements to come in the future.
The most recent announcement is a little light on details, but it’s clear that Google’s Gemini AI model will be a big part of the action. Google alludes to special Gemini features centered around the World Cup, similar to previous limited-time Google Search add-ons for the tournament.
Gemini will also be a major sponsor of the French and Argentine national teams. Gemini branding will be displayed as the main sponsor across Argentina’s training apparel. The partnership with France will go beyond crests and put the AI model into practice. Google previously announced the French national team would use Gemini to “enhance their communication initiatives and create new experiences around the team.”
That partnership also stipulates that Pixel phones will be the official smartphone of the French national team. Social media teams will be equipped with Pixels to “capture the most memorable moments of the French National Team, both on and off the field.”
A new “Shot on Pixel” program will also be available for fans, though, again, details are slim.
This comes as YouTube recently secured a deal to become an official partner of FIFA. That deal revolves around streamed content and official media availability for channels. Some channels will even be able to stream select matches, though broadcast rights remain in place for larger services.
Both teams have historically been top performers, with Argentina taking the World Cup trophy home in 2020, so expect to see a lot of references to Gemini and Pixel phones during the contest. Google says more announcements will be coming soon, and alludes to some more specialized features for the duration of the 2026 World Cup.
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