FIFA President Gianni Infantino issued a special message thanking Indian broadcaster Zee TV for its role in promoting football across India [1].
The partnership is significant as FIFA seeks to expand the sport's popularity in a region traditionally dominated by cricket. By leveraging Zee TV's nationwide reach, the governing body aims to convert casual interest into a sustainable, year-round sporting culture [2].
Infantino released the message on July 19, 2026, the day of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final [1]. The championship match is scheduled to take place at the New York-New Jersey Stadium in the U.S. [1]. Due to time zone differences, the event will air in the early hours of July 20 in India [1].
The FIFA President highlighted the broadcaster's efforts in bringing tournaments, and community screenings to millions of Indian fans [2]. These initiatives are designed to make the sport more accessible to a broader demographic within the country [3].
"I am very proud of our partnership," Infantino said [1].
He acknowledged the specific impact of the network's coverage on the visibility of the game. "Thank you, Zee TV, for promoting football in India and helping make the sport a year-round experience," Infantino said [2].
Infantino commented on the enthusiasm of the local audience. "India’s love for football is inspiring and we look forward to growing the game together," Infantino said [3].
The collaboration focuses on creating a consistent presence for football in the Indian media landscape, moving beyond the sporadic interest typically seen during major tournament cycles [2].
“"I am very proud of our partnership."”
This public endorsement signals FIFA's strategic focus on the Indian market as a primary growth frontier. By partnering with a major domestic broadcaster like Zee TV to implement community screenings and consistent coverage, FIFA is attempting to build a structural foundation for football in India rather than relying solely on the prestige of the World Cup final to drive engagement.
