India's 2026 World Cup Broadcast Rights Face Uncertainty Amid High Court Plea
Published June 11, 2026
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Millions of Indian football supporters face the possibility of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup as broadcast rights remain unsecured, though a new contender has reportedly emerged with a significant offer.
Published — local time around the world
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, a significant concern has arisen for football enthusiasts across India. Reports indicate that millions of fans may be unable to watch the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, due to a lack of secured broadcasting rights in the country. This predicament stems from several factors, including the high cost of acquisition, unfavorable match timings for the Indian subcontinent, and general budget limitations faced by potential broadcasters.
The situation has escalated to a legal challenge, with a plea filed in the Delhi High Court advocating for a free-to-air telecast of the prestigious global event. However, Prasar Bharati, India's public service broadcaster, has clarified that it is not mandated to acquire broadcast rights for such international sporting spectacles. This stance leaves the immediate future of World Cup coverage in India in a precarious position.
In a potential last-minute development, a Washington-based entity named Avni LLC has reportedly entered the fray as a possible contender for the FIFA India rights. The company is said to have put forward a substantial financial guarantee of $300 million, offering a glimmer of hope that a solution might be found before the tournament kicks off in June 2026. The 48-team World Cup promises an expanded schedule, making broadcast access crucial for its global audience.