Fifa has reached a last-minute broadcasting agreement with Zee Entertainment to air the 2026 World Cup in India, ending months of uncertainty over the tournament's availability in one of the world's largest markets. The deal, announced just ten days before the tournament kicks off on 11 June, covers 39 Fifa events over eight years, including the 2027 Women's World Cup.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but Fifa had initially sought about $100 million for the India rights to the 2026 and 2030 men's World Cups before reducing its asking price to $60 million, according to Reuters. Previous negotiations with other broadcasters had stalled, with JioStar—which aired the 2022 World Cup—offering only $20 million, and Sony declining to bid.
The agreement gives Zee a foothold in India's competitive sports broadcasting market, currently dominated by the Reliance-Disney joint venture JioStar, which holds rights to major events like the Indian Premier League. Following the announcement, Zee's shares rose by approximately 7%.
Most matches will be screened late at night in India due to the time difference with North America, a factor that dampened broadcaster interest and complicated Fifa's sales efforts. India will not be competing in the 2026 tournament, which will feature 48 teams for the first time.
The World Cup begins on 11 June with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa, and concludes with the final in New Jersey, USA, on 19 July. Over 100 matches will be played across five-and-a-half weeks.
