Uncertainty Surrounds FIFA World Cup 2026 Broadcast in India
Broadcasting Rights Still Undecided
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with only 37 days remaining, Indian football fans are left in the dark regarding the viewing options for this major event. Currently, FIFA has not finalized the broadcasting rights for the tournament in India. According to a report from a news agency, FIFA has turned down a $20 million (approximately ₹190.4 crore) bid from Jiostar, a joint venture between Reliance and Disney. Additionally, while Sony has engaged in discussions, they have yet to submit a formal offer.
FIFA's Rejection of Offers
Why Did FIFA Reject The Offer?
Reports indicate that FIFA initially sought a $100 million (around ₹950 crore) deal for the broadcasting rights to both the 2026 and 2030 World Cups. In contrast, Viacom18, a Reliance venture, acquired the rights for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for $60 million (approximately ₹570 crore). It appears that FIFA has now adjusted its expectations, aiming for a figure similar to what was secured in 2022. A FIFA insider mentioned, "FIFA is looking for a similar amount for this edition of the tournament."
Valuation Discrepancy
The Massive Valuation Gap
This situation has resulted in a significant valuation gap of $40 million (around ₹380 crore) between the offer from the leading broadcaster in India and FIFA's asking price, just a month before the tournament begins.
Challenges for Indian Broadcasters
Broadcasters Not Keen On FIFA World Cup Rights In India
It has become evident that FIFA's pricing is not appealing to Indian broadcasters. Experts suggest that the tournament may not be a profitable venture in India due to various factors. One major issue is the timing of the matches, which will occur in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, often late at night or early in the morning in India, likely leading to lower viewership. Given that cricket dominates the sports landscape in India, football remains a niche sport with a limited fanbase.
Global Broadcasting Challenges
No Buyer In China Too
FIFA is also struggling to secure a broadcasting agreement in China, leaving the 2026 World Cup without a broadcaster in both India and China, the two most populous countries globally. While India's football team has never qualified for the World Cup, China has participated only once, in 2002. Reports indicate that during the 2022 tournament, China represented 17.7% and India 2.9% of the global linear TV audience, while both countries contributed 22.6% to the total digital streaming reach.
Details of the Upcoming World Cup
FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across 16 venues in the USA, Canada, and Mexico (2 in Canada, 3 in Mexico, and 11 in the USA). The final match will be held at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey, with all quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final taking place in the USA. The tournament will kick off in Mexico City with a match between Mexico and South Africa.