The excitement of Euro 2024 has officially begun, but for those outside the UK and Ireland, catching every match can feel like a challenge. If your local channels aren’t broadcasting the games you’re eager to see, don’t despair. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can be your ticket to the entire tournament, no matter where you are.
Imagine a VPN as your digital passport. It masks your location, allowing you to virtually “travel” to another country and access content usually blocked in your region. For Euro 2024, this means being able to watch matches as if you were right there in the UK or Ireland, where many games are broadcast for free.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how to use a VPN to watch Euro 2024:
- Choose Your VPN: Many reputable VPNs are available, each with its strengths and features. ExpressVPN is a popular choice for its fast speeds and reliable service, perfect for streaming high-quality video.
- Download and Install: Once you’ve selected a VPN, download and install the app on your preferred device. Whether you’re using a laptop, smartphone, or tablet, most VPNs have user-friendly apps to make the process easy.
- Connect to a UK or Ireland Server: Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in either the UK or Ireland. This will make it appear as if your internet traffic is originating from within those countries.
- Choose Your Streaming Platform: With your VPN connected, you can now access streaming services like ITVX, BBC iPlayer (UK), or RTE2 (Ireland). These platforms often provide free live streams of Euro 2024 matches.
- Sign Up and Stream: Create a free account on the streaming platform you’ve chosen (you might need to use a UK postcode, which you can easily find online). Once you’re logged in, simply navigate to the Euro 2024 section and enjoy the match!
Tips for an Optimal Viewing Experience
- Test Your Connection: Before the match starts, run a speed test while connected to your VPN to ensure a smooth, buffer-free stream.
- Choose the Right Server: If your VPN offers multiple server options in the UK or Ireland, experiment with different locations to find the one that provides the best connection speed for you.
- Keep Your VPN Up-to-Date: Regularly update your VPN software to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
- Reach Out to Customer Support: If you encounter any difficulties, most VPN providers have responsive customer support teams to assist you.
Are VPNs legal?
Every country has a different stance on VPNs, and not all see them as favorable. Currently, a handful of governments either regulate or outright ban VPNs. Those currently include Belarus, China, Iraq, North Korea, Oman, Russia, and the U.A.E., to name a few. Still, others impose internet censorship laws, which makes using a VPN risky.
| Country | Current VPN status |
| Belarus | Banned |
| Iraq | Banned |
| North Korea | Banned |
| Oman | Banned |
| Turkmenistan | Banned |
| China | Restricted |
| Iran | Restricted |
| Russia | Restricted |
| Turkey | Restricted |
| The UAE | Restricted |
Depending on the country, governments may impose fines on both the citizen and the VPN service provider for using an unsanctioned VPN. In addition to laws varying country by country, laws in the U.S. can vary state by state. In some countries, banks and companies are free to use VPNs. Generally, governments justify these decisions as preventing terrorist or criminal activity.
With a VPN, you can unlock a world of Euro 2024 content and enjoy the tournament to the fullest. So grab some snacks, gather your friends, and get ready to cheer on your favorite team from the comfort of your own home!
