FIFA provides fresh update on 2026 World Cup broadcast rights in India: 'Must remain confidential'

FIFA has provided a fresh update regarding the broadcast situation of the 2026 World Cup in India amid growing uncertainty over whether Indian fans will be able to watch the tournament on television and digital platforms.

FIFA has also not reached an agreement in China for broadcasting the World Cup this year, with just one month remaining before the start of the tournament. Reports emerged on Monday claiming that FIFA officials will travel to Beijing to finalise a deal.

Meanwhile, a new update has emerged regarding the situation in India. In a statement shared by a Times of India journalist, FIFA confirmed that discussions regarding the sale of media rights in India are still ongoing.

“FIFA has concluded agreements with broadcasters in 180 territories around the world, ahead of the biggest ever FIFA World Cup. Discussions in India regarding sale of media rights for FIFA World Cup 2026 are ongoing and must remain confidential at this stage,” FIFA was quoted as saying.

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the competition scheduled to begin on 11 June.

The uncertainty over the World Cup telecast has now even reached the courts. The Delhi High Court recently issued notices to the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Prasar Bharati after a petition sought free-to-air telecast of the tournament in India.

Why FIFA rights deal is delayed

Reports had earlier suggested that FIFA initially demanded nearly $100 million for the combined media rights of the 2026 and 2030 World Cups in India. However, the governing body later reduced its asking price to around $60 million after broadcasters showed limited interest.

According to Reuters, the Reliance Industries-Disney joint venture reportedly offered around $20 million for the rights, which FIFA did not accept. Sony Group Corporation was also reportedly involved in discussions but decided not to make an offer.

“Discussions in China and India regarding the sale of media rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are ongoing and must remain confidential at this stage,” the statement published by Reuters last week read.

One of the biggest concerns for broadcasters is the tournament timing. Since the World Cup is taking place in North America, most matches will be played late at night or early morning in India, which could affect television ratings and advertising revenue.