Zee bags German Bundesliga broadcast and digital rights for India

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has acquired the official broadcast and digital rights for the German Bundesliga in India for the next five seasons, having signed a partnership agreement with Bundesliga Media.

The deal will see Zee’s digital platform, ZEE5, and its Unite8 Sports television channels broadcast all Bundesliga matches, starting with the 2026/27 season. Zee will provide live coverage of the games, along with highlights and exclusive shoulder programming.

The announcement builds on Zee’s foray into football broadcasting after its recent acquisition of FIFA World Cup broadcast rights in India until 2030.

Peer Naubert, Chief Commercial Officer of Bundesliga Media, commented:

“We have been investing in India for many years because we believe long-term relevance is built through sustained local engagement, not broadcast reach alone. India is not simply a market for the Bundesliga; it is a country where we have consistently invested in football, in partnerships and in people. This partnership with ‘Z’ reflects that philosophy. Their outstanding reach, local expertise and multi-platform capabilities will bring the Bundesliga closer to millions of fans across India. Just as importantly, our shared commitment to grassroots football means we are investing not only in audiences, but in the long-term development of the game itself. For us, media partnerships mark the beginning of a long-term relationship, not the end of a transaction. Together with ‘Z’, we want to inspire the next generation of Indian footballers, strengthen local football structures and deepen the connection between India and the Bundesliga for generations of football fans.”

Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer — Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, added:

“Bundesliga is one of the most exciting football leagues in the world, renowned for its passionate fan culture, world-class clubs and commitment to developing young talent. Through this partnership, viewers will have the opportunity to watch some of the biggest stars in world football, including Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Joshua Kimmich and many other top international talents who light up Bundesliga week after week, across the year. At ‘Z’, we remain committed to contributing towards the growth of football in India. Through this partnership, we aim to create a meaningful and lasting impact by supporting grassroots development, strengthening pathways for young talent and enabling fans to actively participate in the growth journey of football in India. Together with Bundesliga, we will also launch the ‘Z’ x Bundesliga Football Week, bringing grassroots football clinics and development programmes to young aspiring footballers across India, while providing access to world-class coaching expertise and international best practices.”