FIFA President Gianni Infantino thanked Zee TV for its partnership in promoting football across India ahead of the 2026 World Cup final [1].
This acknowledgment highlights a strategic push to grow the sport in one of the world's most populous nations. By leveraging a major broadcaster, FIFA aims to transition India from a cricket-dominant market to a global football hub.
Infantino praised the broadcaster for bringing the sport closer to millions of Indian fans [2]. He said Zee TV provided year-round coverage of FIFA tournaments and organized community screenings to engage viewers [2]. The partnership is intended to sustain interest in the game beyond the duration of a single tournament.
The comments come as the football world prepares for the World Cup final on July 19, 2026 [1]. Due to time zone differences, the match will air in the early hours of July 20 in India [1]. The 2026 tournament has seen a significant scale-up, featuring an expanded field of 48 teams [3].
Infantino said he is proud of the partnership and the role Zee TV has played in expanding the reach of the game [1]. The broadcaster's efforts are seen as a critical component in building a sustainable football culture within the Indian market [2].
The final match will take place in the U.S., specifically at the New York/New Jersey stadium [2]. This concludes a tournament designed to maximize global visibility and accessibility, with India serving as a primary target for growth in the Asian region [2].
“FIFA President Gianni Infantino thanked Zee TV for its partnership in promoting football across India.”
FIFA's public endorsement of Zee TV signals a long-term commitment to the Indian market. By focusing on year-round accessibility and community engagement rather than just the World Cup final, FIFA is attempting to create a permanent infrastructure for football fandom in a region where the sport has historically struggled to compete with cricket.
