The deal includes content such as the FIFA Men’s U-17 World Cup (2026-2034), FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup (2026-2034), FIFA U-20 Men’s World Cup (2027, 2029, 2031 and 2033), FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup (2026, 2028, 2030, 2032 and 2034), FIFA Futsal Men’s World Cup (2028 and 2032), FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup (2029 and 2033), FIFA Women’s World Cup (2027) and FIFA Intercontinental Cup (2026-2030).
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Concluding a major tussle in India’s media space, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (‘Z’) on Monday confirmed an 8-year long deal with Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) to showcase key events like FIFA World Cup 2026, 2030 editions, the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027, and other content.In addition to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ that kicks-off on 11th June 2026, Z won events up to 2034 along with docu-series content, for the Indian market. For the company, the development builds a strong foundation for Z’s sports business, enhances subscriber base across linear and digital segments, fortifies brand partnerships by tapping into newer advertiser segments and provides access to a new consumer cohort.The deal includes content such as the FIFA Men’s U-17 World Cup (2026-2034), FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup (2026-2034), FIFA U-20 Men’s World Cup (2027, 2029, 2031 and 2033), FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup (2026, 2028, 2030, 2032 and 2034), FIFA Futsal Men’s World Cup (2028 and 2032), FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup (2029 and 2033), FIFA Women’s World Cup (2027) and FIFA Intercontinental Cup (2026-2030).“The Company has emerged as one of the most powerful sports destination for the youth of our Nation by partnering with Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA),” said Z in a press release. Until recently, FIFA was known to be in talks with two of the major media entertainment players - Z and Jiostar - with the latter offering only $20-25 million for media rights to two World Cups.The partnership annoncements comes at the heels of the launch of four dedicated sports channels by Z for a multi-fold advantage to FIFA’s flagship global properties. The content will also be aired on Z’s digital entertainment platform Zee 5 for live immersive viewing experience in a language of their choice.“Football cuts across regions and demographics, and the investments in garnering the media rights and launching dedicated sports channels, reflect our clear belief in its long-term potential. Our approach has been to invest in properties where we see current relevance and future growth potential. Our partnership with FIFA will enable us to unlock the true value of the sport in line with our sharp focus on growth and profitability,” said Punit Goenka, CEO, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.“The Indian market is of strategic importance for FIFA as it displays immense potential driven by a young and passionate audience. We believe the extensive broadcast and digital distribution ecosystem of ‘Z’ coupled with their deep understanding of local viewers and multi-platform capabilities will play a pivotal role in expanding the reach of football with fans across every part of India,” said Romy Gai, Chief Business Officer, FIFA.Published on June 1, 2026
