Eurosport, a leading pan-European pay-TV broadcaster, has secured the rights to broadcast the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) soccer competition in the Indian subcontinent. This follows a sub-licensing agreement with 1Stadia, a US-based sports technology and media rights firm.
The deal ensures that every match from the tournament will be shown in India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The coverage commenced with yesterday's opening fixture where Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad triumphed over OFC Champions League winner Auckland City with a score of 3-0 at their King Abdullah Sports City Stadium home in Jeddah.
The CWC features several high-profile teams including Manchester City from English Premier League who are representing Europe after winning UEFA Champions League last year. Other participants include Copa Libertadores winner Fluminense, AFC Champions League winner Urawa Red Diamonds, CAF Champions League winner Al-Ahly and Concacaf Champions League winner Club Leon. The tournament is set to conclude with a grand finale on December 22.
Women's World Cup, Beach Soccer World Cup, and U17 World Cup are among the tournaments covered by agreements between 1Stadia and FIFA
In July this year, 1Stadia secured exclusive broadcasting rights for events organized by FIFA across the Indian subcontinent. These events included not only CWC but also Women’s World Cup, Beach Soccer World Cup, and U17 World Cup games. The company holds these rights for countries such as India, Pakistan Sri Lanka Bangladesh Nepal and Bhutan.
Last year's CWC was streamed across the Indian subcontinent via FIFA+'s streaming platform.
FIFA has been successful in securing several broadcast deals for CWC over recent weeks including agreements with TNT Sports (UK & Ireland), Cronache Di Spogliatoio (Italy), Globo (Brazil), and Max Sport (Bulgaria).
This year's edition of CWC will be the last to feature seven teams. From 2025, the competition is set to expand to include 32 sides, offering an even more exciting and inclusive tournament for soccer fans worldwide.
This deal between Eurosport and 1Stadia marks a significant step in bringing high-quality football action closer to sports fans in the Indian subcontinent. It also underscores Eurosport's commitment towards delivering premium sports content across diverse geographical locations.
