World Cup fans in China and India face broadcast uncertainty

Millions of football fans in China and India face uncertainty over whether the 2026 World Cup will be broadcast in their countries, as deals with FIFA remain unresolved weeks before the tournament [1]. Broadcasters in the two nations, which together account for around a third of the world's population, have yet to secure the rights from football's governing body [1]. FIFA stated that talks in China and India "are ongoing and must remain confidential at this stage" [1]. While 180 territories have completed deals, these two major markets are among a handful still outstanding [1]. Negotiations are reportedly stalled over cost, with FIFA's initial offer to state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) as high as $300m (£220m) [1]. The price has since been lowered to between $120m and $150m, but this is still more than double CCTV's budget for the event, according to state-controlled media [1]. Local reports in China suggest lower interest because the national team did not qualify and many games will air in the early morning due to the time difference in North America [1]. In contrast, deals for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups were announced years in advance [1]. In India, local media reported this week that a broadcast agreement is likely to be announced soon [1].