Reels are already buzzing with the release of the official FIFA World Cup 2026 song. And you know the season is going to be good when Shakira is singing the official anthem. For the next two months, the world is about to be glued to its screens to catch the 23rd edition of the much-awaited football festival. Taking place from June 11 to July 19 2026, the FIFA World Cup 2026 will feature 104 matches across three host countries, Canada, Mexico, and the United States. For fans in India, the good news has finally arrived: Zee Entertainment Pvt Ltd has officially partnered with FIFA. So, get your jerseys ready, snacks full, and schedule freed up to catch the ultimate game.
FIFA World Cup 2026
For years, Indian football fans have been waiting to get their own chant. While it may not be the lucky year, they can still catch the tournament live. After months of waiting, FIFA has finally unveiled its official broadcaster in India. Those waiting to catch the matches on the streaming platform can watch all 104 matches and 43 participating country teams on the Zee5 app and website. However, one needs to pay for a subscription to be able to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 on mobile, laptop, tablet, and other devices.
The digital broadcaster offers a plan for three months at ₹ 799/-, the All Access + Sports plan covering the entire World Cup. The Times of India notes that Zee5 may reveal a dedicated World Cup pass closer to kickoff dates. Nevertheless, for football fans who want to enjoy the matches on traditional TV can opt for the newly launched Unite8 Sports channels by Zee. Moreover, the dedicated coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is divided across four channels: Unite8 Sports, Unite8 1 HD, Unite8Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD. These channels will broadcast the matches live with commentary options in English as well as Hindi.
Timings in India
The first day opening match will take place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico between Mexico and South Africa on June 12, 12:30 AM (IST), along with South Korea vs Czechia at Estadio Guadalajara, Mexico on June 12, 7:30 AM (IST). The kickoff timings in India are primarily 12:30 AM, 3:30 AM, and 6:30 AM IST; however, a few select games may air comfortably at 9:30 M IST. Do keep an eye on ZEE5 for interested matches and timings. The full schedule includes 104 matches across 39 days, with the finals taking place on July 20 (IST) at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
