Why did JioStar exit the ICC media rights deal?

JioStar exited the ICC media rights deal due to significant financial losses incurred over the contract period.

How much is the ICC asking for its media rights?

The ICC is seeking $2.4 billion for the India media rights for the 2026-2029 cycle.

What impact did the Indian government's ban have on cricket advertising?

The ban on real-money gaming platforms in India removed a major source of advertising revenue for cricket, creating a substantial financial shortfall.

Home / Business and Economy / ICC Media Rights Sale Stalls at $2.4 Billion

ICC Media Rights Sale Stalls at $2.4 Billion

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

JioStar withdraws from ICC media rights deal due to financial losses.
ICC seeks $2.4 billion for 2026-2029 India media rights.
Indian government's ban on real-money gaming hit cricket advertising hard.

ICC Media Rights Sale Stalls at $2.4 Billion

The International Cricket Council faces a significant challenge as its primary broadcast partner, JioStar, has signaled its intention to withdraw from a four-year media rights deal with two years remaining. This unexpected move, driven by mounting financial losses, has forced the ICC to reopen the sale of media rights for the 2026-2029 cycle, setting a high price tag of $2.4 billion.

Despite the lucrative nature of cricket broadcasting in India, potential buyers including Sony Pictures Networks India, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video have reportedly found the valuation too steep. This reluctance stems partly from a cooling sports broadcasting market and the impact of the Indian government's ban on real-money gaming, which previously served as a major advertiser for cricket, creating an estimated $840 million hole in projected revenues.