FIFA World Cup 2026: Social media erupts with complaints about Zee5 as Mexico-South Africa match kicks off | Today’s news
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup began, ZEE5 faced a wave of complaints on social media, with users citing technical glitches, pricing concerns and the absence of promised 4K streaming.
Several viewers reached out to X to question the performance and features of the platform. One user wrote: “Hey Z5, you promised the FIFA World Cup in 4K, but there is no 4K option in the app yet. The highest quality available is Full HD. When can viewers expect a 4K stream?” Another added: “Cross checked with other OTTs, everything seems to work fine but not FIFA on Zee5.”
The pricing also drew criticism with a user commenting, “Zee5 is charging an unreasonable price for FIFA WC 2026, I mean I’m not willing to pay 799 for an OTT app that I’ve never used for any purpose before!
Quick answers to key questions
•5 QUESTIONS
Viewers have reported technical glitches, pricing issues and the absence of promised 4K streaming on Zee5 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Zee5 faced backlash after it changed its subscription structure to limit viewers to one device for FIFA World Cup streaming, despite previously marketing a three-device plan.
Zee Entertainment quickly backtracked on its changes to subscription plans in response to the public outcry and reinstated the original premium streaming terms.
Yes, subscribers have expressed concern as Zee5 has failed to deliver the promised 4K streaming and viewers can only access Full HD quality instead.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is significant as it will feature a record 48 teams, resulting in 104 matches being played, making it the largest World Cup in history.
Other users have expressed frustration with access issues and alleged service interruptions during launch. “Very unprofessional and disappointing move by @ZEECorporate, why does existing subscriber have to pay extra to watch Fifa World Cup 26?” one user said, while another wrote: “Right at kick-off time for the first match of the FIFA World Cup, Zee5 crashed.
Read also | Argentina fans who missed their US visas will receive free World Cup TVs
(Disclaimer: This report is based on user generated content from social media. Livemint has not independently verified and does not endorse these claims.)
FIFA World Cup Live Steaming on Zee5
Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) on Monday announced an eight-year partnership with world football governing body FIFA to telecast all its matches, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in the Indian market. Under the agreement with FIFA, ZEEL will telecast 39 global football events, including the 2026 World Cup, which began on June 12 (IST), according to PTI.
Read also | Opening match of the World Cup Mexico vs. South Africa: Legendary goalkeeper Ochoa left the squad
As part of the long-term deal, ZEEL has secured the media rights in India for the 2026 and 2030 FIFA World Cups, the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, along with several other major FIFA events and documentary content until 2034, according to a joint statement.
“We are excited to bring one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world to Indian audiences. Football cuts across regions and demographics and the investment in acquiring media rights and launching dedicated sports channels reflects our clear belief in its long-term potential,” said ZEEL CEO Punit Goenka.
Read also | FIFA World Cup 2026 Live In India: How To Stream Matches Without Subscription
FIFA Business Director Romy Gai said: “The Indian market is of strategic importance to FIFA as it shows huge potential driven by a young and passionate audience. We believe that ‘Z”s extensive broadcast and digital distribution ecosystem, together with their deep understanding of local audiences and multi-platform capabilities, will play a key role in expanding football’s reach with fans in all parts of India.’
2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for a record attendance, with the final team lists showing 1,248 players from 48 countries taking part in the expanded tournament. Of these, 891 players will be making their World Cup debuts, highlighting the mix of experienced names and new talent at the event.
A total of 104 games will be played across Canada, Mexico and the United States. The 2026 edition marks a significant expansion of the world football stunt.
