ZEE plans to re-enter sports broadcasting after eight years
ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) has announced its intention to re-enter the sports broadcasting sector, marking a return eight years after divesting its sports channels to rival network Culver Max Entertainment Private Limited, formerly Sony Pictures Networks India.
ZEEL’s initial venture into sports broadcasting dates back to 2005 with the launch of Zee Sports. The company expanded its portfolio in 2006 through the acquisition of Ten Sports, later enhancing its high-definition offerings with the launch of Ten HD in 2011.
Mukund Galgali, Deputy CEO and CFO at ZEEL, stated, “Zee remained active in the sports domain until 2017, at which point we sold our sports business to Sony. We now plan to re-enter the space, albeit with a clear emphasis on profitability. We do not intend to pursue high-cost properties merely for top-line growth; rather, we shall take a considered approach in selecting sporting rights, which is currently a work in progress. We will keep you informed as developments unfold.”
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Vikas Somani, Chief Relations and Strategy Officer, added, “Our focus is on regional sports with strong local appeal that have yet to be fully explored. We aim to operate in a low-risk, moderate-to-high impact zone, in line with our strategic philosophy. At present, cricket is not a priority for us, as it does not align with our business model. Instead, we are identifying popular local sports properties with potential to be introduced to wider audiences across India.”
Notably, ZEEL currently holds exclusive broadcasting rights to the International League T20 (ILT20).
