Doctor Who fans across the world got their first glimpse of the Time Lord’s new companions in a specially-filmed preview of the new series, due to air later this year on BBC one.

The 50 second teaser debuted during the halftime time break of the World Cup Final between France and Croatia, being shown in the U.K. on BBC One.

Last summer, the BBC used another major sporting event, Wimbledon, to announce the first ever woman to play Doctor Who’s leading role, Jodie Whittaker. The actress was already familiar to U.K. audiences for her role in ITV’s Broadchurch, coincidentally written by new Doctor Who showrunner, Chris Chibnall.

Sadly, for Whovians, there was no first look at the Doctor’s iconic time-traveling ship, the TARDIS, which is also expected to undergo a regeneration with its leading lady.

Season 11 sees Whittaker joined by new companions Graham (played by Bradley Walsh), Ryan (Tosin Cole) and Yasmin (Mandip Gill).

For more footage from the forthcoming series itself, all eyes now turn to San Diego Comic Con where a special Doctor Who panel, featuring Whittaker and Chibnall, will take place later this week.

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