U.S. President Donald Trump’s multi-billion-dollar defamation lawsuit against the BBC is scheduled for trial in February 2027, court documents reveal.
The trial, to be held in Miami, is expected to last two weeks.
Trump is suing over a Panorama episode that he alleges manipulated his speech, making it appear as though he directly encouraged the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.
His legal team described the edit as “false and defamatory” and is seeking compensation for reputational damage caused by the broadcast.
The BBC has apologised for the editing but disputes Trump’s claims for financial compensation.
The corporation maintains that there is no basis for a defamation or trade practices case and plans to file a motion to dismiss by March 17, 2026.
The BBC argues that the Florida court lacks personal jurisdiction, the venue is improper, and Trump has “failed to state a claim.”
Recently, a Florida judge rejected the BBC’s request to delay discovery, deeming the motion “premature.”
As a result, both parties would continue exchanging relevant documents and evidence in preparation for the trial.
A BBC spokesperson said: “As we have made clear previously, we will be defending this case. We are not going to make further comment on ongoing legal proceedings.”
The case is expected to attract significant media attention due to its political implications and the high-profile nature of the plaintiff.
