Z has acquired the exclusive broadcast and digital rights for the German Football League's Bundesliga in India for five years, further expanding its sports portfolio.

Beginning with the 2026-27 season, Bundesliga matches will be available exclusively on Zee5 and Unite8 Sports television channels. The coverage will include live matches, highlights and exclusive shoulder programming for viewers across India.

The acquisition strengthens Z's football offering and follows its strategic partnership with FIFA. The Bundesliga rights also expand the sports content available to Zee5 subscribers by adding one of Europe's leading football leagues to its portfolio.

As part of its long-term commitment to football development in India, Z had earlier announced that it would contribute 15% of Zee5's football-related subscription revenues towards identifying, training and supporting young football talent across the country. Through the initiative, every Zee5 football subscriber will contribute to the development of football in India.

Bundesliga has built a strong presence in India through youth development programmes, club activations and fan engagement initiatives. The league's fan base in India has grown by more than 50% over the last four seasons, reflecting football's rising popularity among Indian audiences.

Z said it remains focused on building a diversified sports portfolio spanning premium global sporting content and emerging sports properties, with the Bundesliga partnership marking another step in its efforts to expand its footprint in sports and support the growth of football in India.

Bavesh Janavlekar, chief business officer, Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, said, “Bundesliga is one of the most exciting football leagues in the world, renowned for its passionate fan culture, world-class clubs and commitment to developing young talent. Through this partnership, viewers will have the opportunity to watch some of the biggest stars in world football, including Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Joshua Kimmich and many other top international talents who light up Bundesliga week after week, across the year. At ‘Z’, we remain committed to contributing towards the growth of football in India. Through this partnership, we aim to create a meaningful and lasting impact by supporting grassroots development, strengthening pathways for young talent and enabling fans to actively participate in the growth journey of football in India. Together with Bundesliga, we will also launch the ‘Z’ x Bundesliga Football Week, bringing grassroots football clinics and development programmes to young aspiring footballers across India, while providing access to world-class coaching expertise and international best practices.” 

Peer Naubert, chief commercial officer, Bundesliga Media, said, “We have been investing in India for many years because we believe long-term relevance is built through sustained local engagement, not broadcast reach alone. India is not simply a market for the Bundesliga; it is a country where we have consistently invested in football, in partnerships and in people. This partnership with 'Z' reflects that philosophy. Their outstanding reach, local expertise and multi-platform capabilities will bring the Bundesliga closer to millions of fans across India. Just as importantly, our shared commitment to grassroots football means we are investing not only in audiences, but in the long-term development of the game itself. For us, media partnerships mark the beginning of a long-term relationship, not the end of a transaction. Together with 'Z', we want to inspire the next generation of Indian footballers, strengthen local football structures and deepen the connection between India and the Bundesliga for generations of football fans.”