Z strengthens football bet, secures exclusive Bundesliga rights for India in five-year deal
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Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (Z) has strengthened its sports portfolio by securing exclusive broadcast and digital rights for Germany’s Bundesliga in India for the next five years, expanding its push into global sports content and football programming.
Under the agreement, beginning with the 2026–27 season, Bundesliga matches will be available exclusively on Zee5 and the company’s Unite8 Sports television channels.
The partnership will bring live Bundesliga matches, highlights and exclusive shoulder programming to audiences across India and marks another step in Z’s ambition to build a stronger football ecosystem in the country.
The acquisition follows the company’s broader strategy to deepen its sports offering after its partnership with FIFA, and is expected to strengthen the value proposition for Zee5 subscribers through access to premium international sporting content.
Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer – Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, said Bundesliga remains one of the world’s most exciting football leagues, known for its competitive clubs, strong fan culture and focus on developing young talent.
Through the partnership, Indian audiences will gain access to some of football’s biggest names, including Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, and Joshua Kimmich>, among other international stars competing in the league.
Janavlekar added that the company intends to support football development beyond broadcasting by investing in grassroots programmes and creating stronger pathways for young players.
As part of the collaboration, Z and Bundesliga will launch the ‘Z x Bundesliga Football Week’, featuring grassroots football clinics and development initiatives for aspiring footballers across India. The programme is expected to provide exposure to international coaching methodologies and best practices.
Peer Naubert, Chief Commercial Officer of Bundesliga Media, said India remains a strategic market for the league and the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to local engagement rather than simply expanding distribution.
According to Naubert, the collaboration aims to bring Bundesliga closer to Indian fans while supporting the development of football infrastructure, talent pathways and participation at the grassroots level.
As part of its broader football strategy, Z had earlier announced that it would allocate 15% of Zee5’s football-related subscription revenues toward identifying, training and supporting young football talent across India.
Bundesliga has expanded its footprint in India through youth initiatives, club partnerships and fan engagement programmes over recent years. According to the league, its fan base in India has grown by more than 50% over the last four seasons, reflecting rising interest in football among Indian audiences.