With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than two months away, India still does not have an official television or streaming broadcaster for football’s biggest event. It is a rare and surprising situation for one of the world’s largest sports markets, especially with the tournament expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Why Indian Broadcasters Are Holding Back
Industry reports say the biggest issue is money. FIFA initially sought a high package price for India rights covering both the 2026 and 2030 World Cups. Reports indicate that figure was later reduced to around $35 million, yet buyers still have not committed. Broadcasters are worried that advertising returns may not justify the investment.
Another major concern is timing. Because the tournament is in North America, many matches are expected to kick off between midnight and early morning in India. That makes it harder for channels and streaming platforms to attract mass audiences and premium advertisers.
Cricket Still Dominates the Market
Indian sports broadcasters have already spent heavily on cricket rights, including IPL, ICC tournaments, and bilateral series. With budgets tied up in cricket properties, networks are reportedly cautious about another expensive global sports package.
