Sony Pictures Networks India to Broadcast ISL Under New FanCode Agreement
In a significant development for Indian football, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has entered into a strategic partnership with FanCode, securing exclusive television broadcast rights for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season. This deal marks a pivotal shift in how the league will be televised, enhancing accessibility for fans across the nation.
Exclusive and Non-Exclusive Rights Details
Under this agreement, SPNI will hold exclusive television broadcast rights within India, ensuring that viewers can catch all the action live on their screens. Additionally, the network has obtained non-exclusive rights in several neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This expansion aims to broaden the ISL's reach and foster a larger fan base in South Asia.
Key aspects of the deal include:
- Exclusive television broadcast rights in India for the ISL 2025-26 season.
- Non-exclusive rights in six South Asian nations, promoting regional viewership.
- A collaboration with FanCode, a digital sports platform, to facilitate this broadcasting arrangement.
The announcement was made on February 14, 2026, at 10:04 IST, highlighting the timely nature of this agreement ahead of the new season. This move is expected to boost the league's visibility and attract more sponsorships and investments.
Implications for Indian Football
This broadcasting deal is poised to have a profound impact on the Indian Super League and the broader football landscape in the country. By partnering with a major network like SPNI, the ISL gains a reliable platform for televised matches, potentially increasing viewership and engagement. The inclusion of non-exclusive rights in neighboring countries also opens up opportunities for cross-border fan interactions and commercial growth.
Industry experts suggest that such agreements are crucial for the development of sports leagues, as they provide stable revenue streams and enhance the overall fan experience. With SPNI's extensive reach and FanCode's digital expertise, this collaboration could set a new standard for sports broadcasting in India.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, fans can look forward to high-quality television coverage of their favorite teams and players, further solidifying the ISL's position as a premier football league in the region.
