EE UK Set to Zero-Rate Data Across its UK Mobile Network All Day on 15th July

Mobile and broadband operator EE (BT) has announced that they will help football fans stay connected by zero-rating data (mobile broadband) across their UK mobile network all day on Wednesday 15th July, which is intended to help celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final match between England and Argentina at 20:00.

In short, EE Pay Monthly, PAYG and even “SME consumer” customers (confusingly the latter does not include business plans) will be able to enjoy free data throughout the UK – whether streaming the game, messaging friends, checking the latest scores or celebrating every goal online. So hopefully the match won’t suffer a delay and end up continuing past midnight.

EE notes how customers generated an all-time record peak in traffic during England’s knockout match against DR Congo, which was 42% higher than normal, although Wednesday’s match will take place well outside of normal working hours (i.e. most people will be connected via home broadband or using a TV).

Kelly Engstrom, Brand and Marketing Communications Director at EE, said:

“As proud lead partner of the Home Nations Football Associations, we know the power football has in bringing people together and creating positive moments that inspire the next generation. Through our Yes Boys campaign, we are supporting young people both on and off the pitch – and by offering free data all day, we are helping our customers get closer to the game and the moments that matter most. Whether watching at home, in the pub or following every moment on the move, our customers can count on the UK’s best network to stay connected and get behind England.”

The operator added that if customers have already used up their monthly data allowance, they’ll still be able to access mobile data at no additional charge throughout the free data period. But it’s worth noting that EE hasn’t strictly gone quite as far as O2 (Virgin Media), which recently extended their inclusive roaming benefit for eligible Pay Monthly customers travelling to the USA to include pay monthly Classic Plan customers until midnight on 20th July (PT) – here.