FIFA PRESIDENT Gianni Infantino acknowledged Zee’s efforts to promote football in India in a video message ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
Infantino thanked Zee for taking football beyond television through authorised public screenings at cinemas, pubs, restaurants, airports, and hotels, noting that the partnership spans 39 FIFA competitions and has helped present football as a year-round sporting property for Indian audiences.
Infantino said, “I am very proud of our partnership which encompasses 39 FIFA competitions, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, FIFA youth World Cups, futsal tournaments and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. This ensures that football can now be presented as a continuous narrative in India, not just as something that happens every four years.”
Zee CEO, Punit Goenka, responded with a letter to Infantino and the FIFA team ahead of the World Cup final, thanking FIFA for its trust and partnership.
Goenka described the collaboration as a defining milestone in Zee’s efforts to strengthen football in India, reaffirming the broadcaster’s long-term commitment to the partnership. He acknowledged the contribution of viewers, advertisers, distribution partners, affiliates, presenters, and football experts in expanding football’s reach across India, and expressed hope that India would one day feature on the FIFA World Cup stage.
Infantino further mentioned, “As we collectively gear up for the final match of the Greatest Show on Earth, we would like to take a moment to extend our gratitude for being an invaluable partner in bringing the passion and spirit of football closer to fans across India.”
