Viacom18 to take over ISL broadcasting rights from Disney-Star

Viacom18 is expected to take over the Indian Super League (ISL) broadcast rights after a 10-year agreement between FSDL and Star Sports. The ISL season 2023-24 will be broadcast LIVE on Sports18, Jio TV, and Jio Cinema.

Star Network has had the broadcasting rights to the event since its debut. While the production was handled by FSDL, Star Sports handled marketing and sponsorship in addition to broadcasting the league. However, considering Viacom 18, which shares ownership with FSDL, they seek to take over the broadcasting rights on their own.

The Indian Super League (ISL), owned by Star Sports, has experienced a decline in viewership, impacting their business. As their 10-year deal as league owners nears its end, Viacom18, backed by Reliance Industries, will take over.

Through its subsidiary FSDL, Reliance Industries owns 65% of the ISL. Viacom18 is aggressively entering the sports broadcast industry, acquiring digital rights for the new IPL cycle and securing rights for various events like the FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, La Liga, Serie A, and Ligue 1. Star Sports will lose their digital and broadcast rights to Viacom18.

Reliance has reportedly reached out to agencies to create promotional videos for the upcoming 2023-24 Indian Super League, which will mark the league’s tenth season. This season will feature the first-ever participation of the promoted I-League winner, expanding the total number of teams to 12. RoundGlass Punjab, by winning the 2022-23 I-League, became the inaugural club to secure promotion to the Indian Super League. Inside Sport