(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
FIFA Finalizes World Cup Broadcast Rights Deal in China
FIFA has confirmed a broadcast rights agreement for the FIFA World Cup in China, reaching a deal just weeks before the start of the tournament.
The agreement was signed with China Media Group and will cover the next four World Cups, including both men’s and women’s tournaments through 2031. This includes the upcoming 2026 men’s World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Deal reportedly lower than expected
According to Chinese media reports, the 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights were valued at around $60 million, significantly lower than FIFA’s earlier expectations of about $300 million.
The agreement comes shortly before the tournament begins on June 11, giving FIFA a confirmed broadcasting partner in one of the world’s largest media markets.
Tournament details
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across multiple host cities in North America. China did not qualify for the tournament.
Strategic broadcast reach
FIFA officials said the agreement marks an important step in expanding global coverage of the tournament. However, differences in time zones between China and North America are expected to affect live viewing schedules.
Other broadcast deals pending
Reports also suggest that broadcast rights for some other major markets, including India, have yet to be finalized.
The deal highlights ongoing negotiations over the commercial value of global football broadcasting rights as FIFA prepares for one of its largest tournaments in history.
