BBC features Houston with fictional mountain range during World Cup coverage

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

BBC features Houston with fictional mountain range during World Cup coverage
Summary

During the ongoing 2026 World Cup, BBC's broadcast mistakenly featured a green screen backdrop of Houston that included mountains, despite the city having a flat. The incident occurred while covering the match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Houston is one of the host cities for the tournament and is known for its cultural diversity and history in space exploration. The city's pro sports teams, including the Dynamo and Rockets, humorously commented on the blunder via social media, poking fun at the fictional scenery. The mix-up has drawn attention for its creative liberties in sports broadcasts.

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By the Numbers
  • BBC aired a green screen of Houston featuring added mountains
  • The mistake was highlighted during halftime of the Portugal vs. Democratic Republic of the Congo match
  • Houston is hosting matches in the 2026 World Cup
  • Local teams Dynamo and Rockets reacted humorously on social media
  • Houston's geography features no mountains, situated on the Gulf Coastal Plain
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 PMYahoo SportsBBC somehow gives Houston glorious mountain range
What they're saying
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The 2026 World Cup has turned out to be an awesome experience because of all of the different countries and cultures coming to North America and having a wonderful time. But in the case of the BBC, they may have taken some creative liberties when it comes to celebrating the city of Houston. Houston has…

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