Zee continues sports market re-entry with multi-year Bundesliga rights deal

Zee Entertainment is expanding its sports presence in India with a multi-year Bundesliga media rights deal, adding Germany’s top-flight competition to its soccer portfolio. The agreement, reported by Sportcal, runs for five seasons and covers linear broadcast and digital streaming rights. Coverage is set to be distributed across Zee’s four sports-focused linear channels under the “Unite8” brand, plus the Zee 5 OTT service, featuring live matches, a highlights package, and “exclusive” pre- and post-match shoulder content. The deal is expected to be particularly attractive for viewers following Bayern Munich, whose roster includes Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Jamal Musiala. Peer Naubert, Bundesliga Media’s commercial officer, said Zee’s long-term local engagement will bring the league closer to millions in India. The Bundesliga also cited a 50% India fanbase growth over four seasons and plans a “Z x Bundesliga Football Week” with clinics and grassroots programs. Zee’s re-entry follows its return to sports after exiting in 2024 amid an ICC sublicensing dispute with Star.