Just days after securing the broadcast rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and several major FIFA tournaments in India, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL) has accelerated its sports broadcasting strategy with the official launch of its Unite8 Sports network.
Following approvals from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, ZEEL has introduced four dedicated sports channels under the Unite8 Sports brand:
| Channel |
|---|
| Unite8 Sports 1 |
| Unite8 Sports 1 HD |
| Unite8 Sports 2 |
| Unite8 Sports 2 HD |
The channels have already been rolled out across more than 500 distribution platforms nationwide, significantly expanding their reach ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which kicks off on 11 June 2026.
Current Availability of Unite8 Sports Channels
Channel numbers are being updated as operators finalize placement.
Loading ...| Platform | Channel Number |
|---|---|
| Tata Play | TBA |
| Airtel Digital TV | TBA |
| Dish TV | TBA |
| Sun Direct | TBA |
| Siti Networks | TBA |
| Indian Cable Net Company Ltd. | TBA |
| Hinduja Global | TBA |
| Fastway | TBA |
| Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Ltd. | TBA |
| Kerala Communicators Cable Ltd. (KCCL) | TBA |
| Thamizhaga Cable TV Communications | TBA |
| V K Digital | TBA |
| UCN Cable Network | TBA |
| Take One | TBA |
| Sri Sai Cable | TBA |
| Kal Cable | TBA |
| Digiana | TBA |
| Bhimavaram Cable Network | TBA |
| Axom Cable Network | TBA |
This table will be updated as official channel numbers become available.
Multi-Sport Programming Strategy
Unite8 Sports has been positioned as a comprehensive sports destination featuring:
- Football
- Cricket
- Kabaddi
- Badminton
- Wrestling
- Boxing
- Combat Sports
- Other domestic and international sporting events
The launch reflects ZEEL’s broader vision of strengthening its presence in the sports broadcasting sector while catering to India’s growing demand for live sports content.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Coverage
The biggest attraction for sports fans will undoubtedly be the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With ZEEL securing Indian rights for multiple FIFA tournaments through 2034, Unite8 Sports is expected to become the primary destination for FIFA coverage in India. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will begin on 11 June 2026 and feature an expanded 48-team format hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
What Zee Said
Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer – Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., said:
“With Unite8 Sports, we have built a curated, multi-sport offering that reflects the evolving preferences of Indian audiences and creates a scalable platform that can match the increasing demand for high-quality, accessible live sports action across the country.”
He added that the network is working closely with distribution partners to ensure nationwide accessibility while preparing for upcoming FIFA events.
A Quick Move After Securing FIFA Rights
The launch of four sports channels immediately after announcing the FIFA partnership demonstrates ZEEL’s commitment to building a dedicated sports ecosystem rather than relying solely on existing entertainment channels.
As distribution expands and channel numbers become available across DTH and cable platforms, Unite8 Sports is expected to play a major role in India’s sports broadcasting landscape leading up to FIFA World Cup 2026 and beyond.
Q: What are the new Unite8 Sports channels?
A: ZEEL has launched Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD across India.
Q: Which company owns Unite8 Sports?
A: Unite8 Sports is operated by Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL).
Q: Will FIFA World Cup 2026 be shown on Unite8 Sports?
A: Yes, Unite8 Sports is preparing for the exclusive broadcast of FIFA World Cup 2026 in India.
Q: Is Unite8 Sports available on Tata Play?
A: Yes, the channels have started rolling out on Tata Play and other major DTH platforms. Channel numbers are expected to be announced soon.
Q: Is Unite8 Sports available on Airtel Digital TV and Dish TV?
A: Yes, ZEEL has confirmed availability through major DTH operators including Airtel Digital TV and Dish TV.
