Zee Entertainment Enterprises has secured the Indian broadcast and streaming rights for the 2026 and 2030 FIFA World Cups, the company said on Monday, ending weeks of uncertainty for millions of football fans across the country.
The deal follows prolonged negotiations that had left the tournament’s telecast in doubt, raising concerns that Indian viewers could miss out on football’s biggest global event.
Broadcasters in India and across Asia had been cautious about bidding for the rights, citing concerns that late-night kickoff times would reduce viewership and weaken advertising revenue.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is set to begin on June 11.
“We are excited to bring one of the world’s biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences,” said Zee chief executive Punit Goenka.
“Our partnership with FIFA will allow us to unlock the true value of the sport while amplifying the excitement of the game for every fan,” he added.
Zee did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement, which also includes rights to broadcast 38 other FIFA events in India between 2026 and 2034.
FIFA had reportedly sought around $100 million for the 2026 and 2030 tournament rights, a valuation that attracted limited interest in the Indian market, according to local media.
FIFA chief business officer Romy Gai said India remains a key growth market for football.
“The FIFA World Cup is the greatest show on earth, and we are glad to partner with Z for the first time to bring this global spectacle to India,” he said in a statement.
