FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast rights in India remain unsold despite hefty price cut: Report
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FIFA is struggling to find buyers even after the cuts.
FIFA has reportedly lowered India’s media rights fee for the 2026 and 2030 FIFA World Cups from $100 million to about $35 million. It is an uncommon move for one of the largest sports events in the world.
The lack of an official broadcaster for the Indian market, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than two months away, is a stark contrast to past editions, when broadcast arrangements were finalised well in advance.
FIFA cuts Indian media rights fee for 2026 & 2030 World Cups
In July 2025, FIFA released its first proposals for the Indian subcontinent, initially requesting about $100 million for the combined rights to the 2026 and 2030 competitions. However, the price was ultimately cut to almost $35 million since broadcasters and streaming providers showed little interest.
There is still ambiguity about how Indian viewers will be able to watch the competition. Despite that substantial drop, no broadcaster has reportedly agreed to purchase the rights.
When compared to earlier cycles, the lack of interest becomes even more apparent. Viacom18 paid over $62 million for digital rights in India for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, setting a record at the time. Major broadcasters also participated heavily in previous tournaments, with Sony Sports Network owning the broadcasting rights for the World Cups in 2014 and 2018.
A major change in the perceived value of football broadcasting rights in India is indicated by the current inability to find purchasers, even at almost half the previous price.
ISL media rights in India have also fallen sharply
It doesn’t seem like the World Cup rights situation is unique. It is indicative of a general decline in the value of football media rights in India. The rights value of the Indian Super League (ISL), which was formerly regarded as the nation’s premier football league, has also drastically decreased.
In the most recent cycle, the figure has dropped to as low as ₹8 crore annually. Earlier deals reportedly brought in over ₹200 crore annually. Despite consistent grassroots enthusiasm and participation, that precipitous decline underscores the commercial difficulties facing Indian football broadcasting.
Will fans from India be able to watch the 2026 World Cup?
Currently, the governing body (FIFA) is struggling to find media rights for the competition.
Which Indian company brought the 2022 World Cup digital rights?
Viacom18.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.