FIFA set to close India media rights deal for World Cup soon: Report

As per a report by a prominent media outlet, FIFA recently held discussions with senior executives from both JioHotstar and Zee Entertainment

by e4m Staff
Published: May 23, 2026 8:13 PM | 1 min read

FIFA is finalizing a media rights agreement for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in India, addressing uncertainty over the broadcasting network.
Discussions have taken place with JioHotstar, the previous broadcaster, and Zee Entertainment, with JioHotstar maintaining a bid of approximately $20 million.
FIFA had initially sought nearly $100 million for the combined rights to the 2026 and 2030 World Cups, but expectations have been revised to around $35 million due to limited buyer interest.
A formal announcement regarding the rights deal is anticipated as early as next week, following the completion of contractual formalities.

Global football body FIFA is nearing the closure of its India media rights agreement for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, potentially resolving prolonged uncertainty over which network will air the tournament in the country.

As per a report by a prominent media outlet, FIFA recently held discussions with senior executives from both JioHotstar and Zee Entertainment.

While JioHotstar — the broadcaster of the 2022 edition — is understood to have maintained its bid at around $20 million, Zee has gained momentum in the negotiations.

The governing body had originally sought nearly $100 million for the combined India rights for the 2026 and 2030 FIFA World Cups. However, with limited buyer appetite, expectations have reportedly been revised downward to roughly $35 million. The eventual agreement is expected to cover both tournaments.

People familiar with the matter indicated that the rights deal is in its final stages, with a formal announcement likely as early as next week after contractual formalities are completed.