Unite8 Sports goes live with four new channels across India after government clearance

MUMBAI: Game on, and this time it is a full broadcast hat-trick as the sports screen gets a fresh lineup. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has officially taken its new linear sports portfolio, branded as Unite8 Sports channels, live across India after securing approval from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The rollout includes four channels, Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD, now available across more than 500 cable and distribution platforms nationwide. The launch marks a significant push by the network to strengthen its presence in India’s highly competitive sports broadcasting space.

Viewers will be able to tune in through major distribution partners including Dish TV, Tata Play, Airtel Digital TV, Sun Direct, Siti Networks and several regional cable operators across the country. The channels aim to bring a wide mix of live sporting action, spanning cricket, football, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling, boxing and combat sports under one umbrella.

A key highlight of the rollout is its focus on major global sporting events, including coverage plans around the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to begin on 11 June 2026.

Speaking on the launch, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd chief business officer – Unite8 Sports, Bavesh Janavlekar said the platform is designed to reflect evolving viewer preferences and deliver scalable, high-quality live sports access across India. He also emphasised stronger distribution partnerships and a seamless viewing experience for audiences nationwide.

With its multi-sport format and wide reach ambition, Unite8 Sports is positioning itself as a consolidated destination for fans seeking both variety and accessibility in live sports coverage.

As competition for sports broadcasting heats up, the network’s latest move signals a clear play for scale, reach and front-row visibility in India’s fast-evolving sports media landscape.