FIFA is closing in on a broadcast partner for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in India, with Zee Entertainment Enterprises emerging as the leading contender after months of uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s telecast rights in the country.
Zee has submitted a formal bid and held discussions with FIFA officials during their recent visit to India. The deal is estimated at USD 30–35 million and is expected to cover both the 2026 and 2030 men’s World Cups, with an official announcement anticipated as early as next week.
FIFA had initially sought close to USD 100 million for the combined rights to both tournaments but significantly revised its expectations downward following limited interest from major broadcasters. Sony Group Corporation and FanCode have already opted out of the bidding process, while JioHotstar – which held rights for the 2022 edition – is understood to have maintained its valuation at approximately USD 20 million, leaving Zee well-positioned to secure the deal.
The 2026 edition, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks a historic expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 – making it the largest World Cup in history.
India remains a strategically significant market for FIFA. Football viewership has grown steadily, driven by strong interest in European leagues and past World Cup editions, with passionate fan bases in Kolkata, Goa, Kochi, and Bengaluru, alongside a growing younger audience in metro cities nationwide.
