ISL clubs open direct media-rights talks with Zee and Sony Sports

On August 19, 2026, Indian Super League clubs opened direct negotiations with broadcasters Zee and Sony Sports in India over the league's upcoming media-rights cycle, Khel Now reported. The outreach followed concerns raised during the recent tender process for the next four-season rights cycle.

Khel Now said the ISL's shift to a club-led model has coincided with limited broadcaster interest in the central media-rights sale, with only one bid submitted for the upcoming four-season cycle. That lack of competitive offers prompted clubs to explore alternative arrangements and different commercial routes rather than relying solely on the initial tender.

Khel Now reported that Google has entered the conversation, informing clubs how it could support the ISL if matches were made available live on YouTube, and joining discussions alongside traditional broadcasters.

The publication also noted a series of commercial agreements already secured under the club-led model: a four-year licensing deal with EA Sports to keep the league in EA Sports’ FC games; a four-year contract with Sportradar worth approximately ₹57 crore that retains Sportradar as the ISL's data and integrity partner till the year 2030; and a new two-year deal with Nivia Sports to continue as the league's ball and equipment partner.

Khel Now described media rights as an ongoing issue for the ISL under the new club-led structure and said clubs are pursuing direct talks and other options to resolve the situation for the next cycle.

Clubs remain in discussions with potential broadcast and digital partners as Khel Now reported the ISL 2026-27 season is likely to start on 10th October.