FanCode Wins ISL 2025–26 Broadcasting Rights, KPS Studio to Handle Production

The Indian Super League’s broadcasting future has been finalized, with FanCode emerging as the successful bidder for ISL 2025-26 broadcasting rights. The platform submitted a bid of ₹8.62 crore for Package B, winning the rights after the All India Football Federation completed its evaluation process. Simultaneously, KPS Studio has secured the world-feed production rights with a bid of ₹5.22 crore for Package E. This decision brings clarity to the league’s broadcast arrangements following months of uncertainty among clubs, stakeholders, and supporters. The partnership marks a significant moment for Indian football’s digital accessibility and production standards.

FanCode’s Winning Bid and Package Details

FanCode has been awarded the broadcasting rights for ISL 2025-26 after submitting the most competitive bid for Package B. The successful bid comprised ₹10 lakh for linear broadcast rights and ₹8.52 crore for digital streaming rights, totaling ₹8.62 crore.

FanCode’s bid demonstrates confidence in the platform’s ability to deliver the league to Indian audiences across multiple digital channels. The company has already initiated discussions with television broadcasters to sub-license TV rights in India, with any additional revenue generated through such arrangements to be shared with the league.

ISL Media Rights Packages Explained

The ISL 2025-26 media rights were divided into five distinct packages, allowing different entities to bid for specific broadcasting components. This modular approach provided flexibility for bidders and ensured comprehensive coverage of the league’s broadcast needs.

KPS Studio’s Production Rights Victory

KPS Studio has secured the world-feed production rights for ISL 2025-26 by submitting the lowest valid bid of ₹5.22 crore for Package E. The studio’s technical expertise and production capabilities positioned it favorably in the evaluation process, which emphasised both quality and cost-effectiveness.

The production component is critical for ensuring high-quality coverage that meets international standards. KPS Studio’s selection indicates confidence in their ability to deliver professional world-feed production that allows Indian football to reach global audiences.

Bid Evaluation and Selection Process

The All India Football Federation employed a Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) model to evaluate bids, prioritizing technical capability alongside financial strength. The evaluation mechanism involved multiple stages and comparative analysis.

Commercial bids were ranked package-wise, with Packages A, B, C, and D ranked in descending order of financial value. Package E was evaluated differently, with the lowest production cost considered most favorable. Only bidders who qualified in the technical round progressed to the commercial evaluation stage.

Competing Bidders and Outcomes

Multiple broadcasters and digital platforms participated in the bidding process. However, not all bidders successfully progressed through the evaluation stages. Two Circles faced disqualification for failing to submit the mandatory ₹5 lakh Earnest Money Deposit, while Monarch in partnership with PR Solution failed to meet net-worth criteria outlined in the Request for Proposal.

Notably, established broadcasters Zee Sports and Sony Sports did not submit bids despite attending the pre-bid meeting. AIFF rejected Sony’s request for an extension, maintaining strict deadline compliance.

Financial Impact and League Economics

The ISL 2025-26 net revenue stands at ₹3.4 crore, representing a significant reduction from previous seasons. This figure reflects broader challenges in Indian football’s commercial landscape and highlights the competition from other sports and streaming platforms for broadcasting rights.

FanCode will need to pay KPS Studio ₹5.75 crore for match production, creating a financial arrangement where the league receives revenue while production costs are managed through a separate agreement. This structure ensures quality production without entirely absorbing costs within the media rights fee.

Digital Accessibility Focus

FanCode’s emphasis on digital streaming aligns with contemporary consumption patterns in Indian sports. The platform’s focus on accessibility through digital channels recognizes the shift in audience preferences, particularly among younger demographics who favor on-demand viewing.

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