Spanish cities set up giant screens to watch World Cup semifinal

Municipalities across Spain are installing large outdoor screens so residents can view the July 14, 2026 World Cup semifinal between Spain and France. Cities such as Oviedo, Gijón, Ferrol, Albacete, San Fernando, Vigo, and the province of Pontevedra have announced fan‑zone installations, many with additional services like food stalls, restrooms and live music. The screens range from a 16‑square‑metre unit in Oviedo’s Plaza Alfonso II to a venue in San Fernando’s Parque Almirante Laulhé, where the local fair will open early to accommodate the match. Some projects have encountered obstacles; Vigo’s screen was ordered to be dismantled pending further permits, and local authorities in Yamaguchi advised against placing a screen due to safety and health concerns during the San Fermin celebrations. Similar fan‑zone plans have also been reported in French towns of Guînes, Ardres, and Marck, where authorities will broadcast the same match on giant screens. All installations aim to provide free public viewing of the high‑profile match that could see Spain advance to the final.