Sony Pictures Networks India has acquired the broadcast rights for the 2025–26 season of the Indian Football League (formerly the I-League), reinforcing its commitment to strengthening football coverage in India and expanding its multi-tier portfolio of domestic and international competitions.
The agreement includes both television and digital rights, ensuring wider accessibility for fans across platforms. Organised by the All India Football Federation, the Indian Football League remains a key component of the country’s football pyramid, providing a competitive platform for clubs and serving as an important pathway for emerging talent.
The agreement reflects sustained confidence in the commercial trajectory of Indian football, as stakeholders increasingly focus on improving visibility, fan engagement and sponsorship value through broader broadcast distribution.
Commenting on the development, Sony Pictures Networks India Chief Revenue Officer and Business Head, sports and International, Rajesh Kaul said, “The Indian Football League is an important pillar of the country’s football structure, with deep regional followings and a vital role in shaping the next generation of talent. With this acquisition, we are further strengthening our football offering and building a more complete ecosystem for fans in India.”
AIFF Deputy Secretary General M. Satyanarayan added, “We are happy to have Sony Sports Network as the broadcast partners for the league. Last season, the title race went right down to the final day, and we hope this year it will be just as exciting. The Indian Football League has its own distinct charm, and we are confident it will live up to expectations once again.”
The addition of the Indian Football League further deepens Sony’s football inventory, complementing an extensive rights portfolio that includes the Indian Super League, Durand Cup, UEFA EURO 2028, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Nations League, Bundesliga and the FA Cup. The acquisition strengthens Sony’s positioning as a central hub for football content in India at a time when broadcasters are increasingly prioritising year-round engagement and multi-competition programming strategies.
For the All India Football Federation and participating clubs, the partnership is expected to enhance the league’s exposure and reinforce its relevance within India’s evolving football structure. Increased broadcast visibility is likely to support fan growth across regional markets while contributing to the long-term development of the domestic game.
By securing the Indian Football League rights, Sony Pictures Networks India continues to consolidate its presence in the sports broadcasting landscape, underscoring its strategy of building a comprehensive football ecosystem that spans grassroots pathways, domestic competitions and elite international tournaments.
