Overview
- FIFA says it has broadcast agreements in more than 175 territories, but China and India are not on the list and talks remain ongoing and confidential.
- In India, a reported offer of about $20 million from JioStar was rejected after far higher initial price targets, and Sony explored bidding but did not submit a proposal.
- The Delhi High Court issued a notice to state broadcaster Prasar Bharati over a plea for free-to-air access, and the broadcaster has held fallback talks with FIFA.
- In China, state network CCTV has not agreed terms despite reported price cuts, raising concern for sponsors like Mengniu and Hisense that planned domestic campaigns.
- Overnight kickoff times for Asian viewers slash advertising value, and football’s few in-game breaks limit ad slots, which industry voices say weakens returns for broadcasters.