Zee5 Subscription Changes Spark Outrage Among Football Fans Ahead of World Cup
Major Subscription Changes by Zee Entertainment
Mumbai: Football enthusiasts are expressing their frustration as Zee Entertainment has unexpectedly altered its Zee5 subscription plans just as the World Cup kicks off in Mexico today. This sudden change has taken many fans by surprise.
Previously, the World Cup subscription plan priced at ₹799 (with ads) allowed streaming on three devices for three months. However, on the day of the kickoff, this has been restricted to a single device. Additionally, the one-year premium subscription, which was available for ₹1699 (ad-free) and permitted streaming on four devices, has now been limited to just two devices. Consequently, fans will need to spend more to enjoy the World Cup matches.
Zee Entertainment's Ambitious Plans
Zee Entertainment had acquired the broadcast rights amid uncertainty regarding the World Cup's availability in India. By securing these rights, Zee aimed to make significant strides in both television and digital streaming sectors. As part of its agreement with FIFA, the Zee Group has obtained the broadcast rights for 38 FIFA tournaments through 2034.
To facilitate the World Cup broadcasts, Zee has introduced four new sports channels: Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD. Fans can also stream the matches digitally on Zee5.
Doordarshan Offers Free Broadcasts
In a positive turn for fans lacking Zee channels or a Zee5 subscription, Doordarshan has stepped in to provide some relief. Doordarshan Sports (DD Sports) will air the opening match today, along with all knockout matches starting from the quarter-finals at no cost.
This includes the quarter-finals on July 9, 10, and 11, the semi-finals on July 14 and 15, and the final on July 19. This initiative is a significant relief for numerous viewers nationwide.
Broadcast Schedule
#FIFAWorldCup ✨⚽️ DD Sports will also telecast Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 ⚽️ Link
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) June 10, 2026
Broadcast Schedule ⚡️ FIFA World Cup 2026 Games LIVE on DD Sports (DD Free Dish) #FIFAWorldCup⚽️ Link
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) June 10, 2026