Peru orders blocking of 238 pirate websites streaming 2026 FIFA World Cup matches

By Espinosa Bellido Abogados

Peru's National Institute for the Defense of Competition and Protection of Intellectual Property (INDECOPI) ordered internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to 238 websites that illegally streamed matches from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The measure was issued through the agency's Copyright Directorate following complaints from the exclusive broadcasting rights holders, with the aim of preventing the unauthorized online transmission of one of the world's most valuable sporting events.

According to INDECOPI, the websites made live World Cup matches available without authorization, infringing the exclusive rights granted to official broadcasters. The authority stated that the blocking order forms part of its efforts to combat digital piracy and protect copyright in the online environment, particularly during high-profile events that attract large audiences and are frequently targeted by illegal streaming platforms.

The decision was adopted under Peru's Copyright Law and the country's legal framework governing technological protection measures and intermediary liability. INDECOPI has increasingly relied on dynamic blocking orders that allow authorities to respond quickly to piracy during live events, where unauthorized broadcasts can cause significant economic harm to rights holders if enforcement is delayed.

Sports broadcasting rights have become one of the most valuable categories of copyrighted content worldwide. FIFA licenses the exclusive audiovisual rights to the World Cup on a territorial basis, enabling broadcasters to recover their investments through subscriptions, advertising and licensing agreements. Unauthorized streaming undermines those commercial arrangements and has prompted regulators in numerous jurisdictions to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against online piracy.

INDECOPI is Peru's national authority responsible for administering intellectual property rights, including copyrights, trademarks, patents and other forms of industrial property. Through its Copyright Directorate, the agency has authority to investigate infringements, order precautionary measures and impose administrative sanctions against copyright violations, including those occurring through digital platforms.

The blocking order reflects a broader international trend toward more rapid enforcement against illegal live streaming. Authorities in several countries have adopted dynamic injunctions and expedited administrative procedures to disable access to pirate websites during major sporting events, recognizing that traditional judicial processes often conclude only after the event has ended, limiting their practical effectiveness.

Peru has expanded its efforts against online piracy in recent years as digital consumption of audiovisual content continues to grow. Alongside enforcement actions, INDECOPI has promoted public awareness of intellectual property rights and encouraged consumers to access content through authorized services, emphasizing the role of copyright protection in supporting creative industries, media companies and sports organizations.