World Cup fans in China and India face broadcast uncertainty
Summary
Millions of football fans in China and India may not be able to watch the 2026 World Cup on TV yet because broadcasters in those countries have not agreed on rights deals with FIFA. Discussions about the cost of the broadcast rights are still happening, with FIFA lowering its price offer to China, but a deal has not been reached.Key Facts
- The 2026 World Cup will start in a few weeks, but China and India have not finalized TV broadcast deals yet.
- FIFA usually completes broadcast agreements months or years before such big events.
- Broadcast rights deals for 180 territories have been completed, but not for China and India.
- China Central Television (CCTV) was offered the rights to the World Cup for $120-$150 million, down from $300 million.
- CCTV’s budget for the event is less than half the price FIFA now asks.
- China did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup, possibly reducing local interest in the games.
- The time difference will mean many key games happen very early in the morning in China.
- India is close to announcing a deal to show the World Cup but has not done so yet.
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