Zee Entertainment Eyes FIFA World Cup Streaming Rights

Zee Entertainment is negotiating with FIFA to secure the streaming and broadcast rights for the 2026 World Cup in India. These discussions coincide with stalled negotiations involving a Reliance-Disney venture. FIFA's initial $100 million price has decreased to $60 million, significantly higher than Reliance-Disney's $20 million offer.

Zee Entertainment has entered into discussions with FIFA to obtain streaming and broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Cup in India, the company announced on Tuesday.

As the negotiations unfold, a joint venture between Reliance and Disney has hit a roadblock, just weeks away from the June 11 tournament start. FIFA had initially set the price for broadcasting rights in India at $100 million, later lowering expectations to no less than $60 million, according to reports from Reuters.

However, this figure still surpasses the $20 million bid made jointly by Reliance-Disney, which is spearheaded by Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance. Notably, Sony had considered entering the bidding fray but opted out. Meanwhile, FIFA has secured broadcasting agreements in over 180 territories globally. Zee's disclosure comes amid the launch of Unite8 Sports, a dedicated sports channel lineup, marking a strategic expansion in their sports services. India represented 2.9% of the 2022 World Cup's global linear TV audience.