Zee Entertainment is reportedly in discussions with FIFA to acquire the India broadcast and streaming rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026. While the deal has not been finalised yet, the company has confirmed that talks are ongoing ahead of the tournament scheduled to begin in June next year.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico and will feature an expanded 48-team format for the first time. Despite the tournament drawing closer, FIFA is yet to announce an official broadcast partner for the Indian market.
Zee enters race for FIFA rights
Reports from NDTV sports suggest FIFA had earlier held talks with the Reliance-Disney joint venture for the India rights package. However, negotiations reportedly did not move forward, giving Zee an opportunity to enter the picture.
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Initial expectations for the India media rights were believed to be very high, but market interest reportedly forced FIFA to reconsider the pricing. Current estimates suggest the value of the deal could now be significantly lower than the original demand.
“FIFA needs to act urgently to address the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans, and workers," HRW said.
Adding to that they also said as quoted by NDTV sports, "One concrete thing it should do is work to persuade the Trump administration to establish an 'ICE Truce'... "Gianni Infantino (FIFA president) and his FIFA colleagues should use their leverage to demand that the Trump administration do what's right for the games," it added. "Roll back discriminatory travel bans, refrain from abusive immigration enforcement operations in and around World Cup venues, protect children's rights and commit to uphold freedom of assembly and speech."
Zee Launches Unite8 Sports Channels, Eyes Soccer World Cup Rights for India https://t.co/aJab3hYSko
— Variety (@Variety) May 26, 2026
For Zee, securing the FIFA World Cup rights would mark a major return to the sports broadcasting space. The company has recently shown interest in strengthening its sports portfolio and expanding its presence in live sporting events.
Fans await official confirmation
Indian football fans are still waiting for clarity over where they will be able to watch the World Cup next year. With no broadcaster confirmed yet, uncertainty remains around television and digital streaming access in the country.
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The 2026 edition will be the biggest FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 104 matches across multiple venues in North America. The tournament is expected to attract massive global viewership, including a large audience from India.
