Reliance-Disney’s $20M bid for 2026 World Cup India rights declined by FIFA

FIFA has rejected a $20 million offer from the Reliance Industries–The Walt Disney Company joint venture for India rights to the FIFA World Cup 2026, casting doubt over the tournament’s broadcast in one of its largest markets just weeks before kickoff.

A Reuters report said Sony Group Corporation also held exploratory talks but ultimately chose not to bid, citing the steep valuation. With no deal in place, millions of fans in India risk missing the World Cup, which begins on June 11. Negotiations are still ongoing, FIFA said, adding that discussions in India and China remain confidential.

The delay is unusual. In previous editions, including 2018 and 2022, China’s state broadcaster China Central Television had secured rights well in advance and launched extensive promotional campaigns. China and India are critical markets for FIFA. China alone accounted for nearly 49.8% of global digital and social media viewing hours during the 2022 tournament, while the two countries together made up over a fifth of global streaming reach.

FIFA has already struck broadcast deals in more than 175 territories but is yet to close agreements in these two key regions.

The governing body had initially sought around $100 million for India rights for the 2026 and 2030 editions. While expectations have since softened, FIFA is still holding out for a significantly higher figure than the $20 million offer. Reliance had paid roughly $60 million for the 2022 rights.

Industry sources say the Reliance-Disney JV is factoring in lower viewership, as the 2026 tournament—hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico—will air largely past midnight in India. With less than five weeks to go, time is running out to finalise a deal, set up distribution, and monetise advertising in a market with a massive football audience.