With only a few weeks left before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, uncertainty continues over its official broadcaster in India. In a surprising development, Washington DC-based Indian-American investment firm Avni LLC has emerged as a contender for the tournament’s India media rights.
As part of FIFA’s closed tender process for the Indian subcontinent, Avni LLC reportedly submitted a corporate guarantee backed by financial commitments worth more than $300 million in February 2026. The company also claimed that one of its associated partners had secured the bid after competing with several major Indian broadcasters.
Avni LLC is reportedly pushing a broader digital-first strategy focused on OTT streaming, AI-powered multilingual broadcasts, mobile subscriptions, and esports integrations across Asia.
“The Indian subcontinent alone has the ability to exceed initial valuation expectations,” said Deelip Mhaske, President and CEO of Avni LLC.
Despite India being one of the fastest-growing football markets globally, the country still does not have a confirmed broadcaster for the tournament. In contrast, neighbouring China recently finalised a comprehensive FIFA World Cup rights deal with state broadcaster CMG on May 15.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has issued notices to Prasar Bharati and the Centre over a petition seeking free-to-air telecast of the World Cup on platforms such as DD Sports and Doordarshan.
The petition, filed by advocate Avdhesh Bairwa under Article 226 of the Constitution, argues that millions of Indian football fans could miss out on watching one of the world’s biggest sporting events if broadcast rights remain unresolved.
According to the plea, FIFA initially valued the India rights package for the 2026 and 2030 World Cups at nearly USD 100 million. However, due to limited interest from broadcasters, the valuation was later reduced to around USD 35 million. Even after the price reduction, no final agreement has reportedly been reached.
FIFA has maintained that discussions regarding India’s broadcast rights are “ongoing” and confidential at this stage.
