How a FIFA Deal Gave Fox an Unbelievable Bargain

Fox Corporation is set to benefit immensely from a favorable agreement to broadcast the 2026 World Cup. Industry analysts are surprised by the terms, noting that Fox will pay less than $500 million for the broadcasting rights. These rights are estimated to be worth up to three times that amount, leaving many wondering how Fox managed to secure such a beneficial deal.

The roots of this agreement can be traced back to March 2014. In a confidential meeting at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, key figures in the soccer world discussed a significant decision. This decision was necessary to resolve an issue that could potentially cost hundreds of millions of dollars to FIFA.

The issue originated from a previous decision made in the same room four years prior. Then, FIFA made the controversial choice to have Qatar host the 2022 World Cup. The tournament was traditionally held in June and July, but Qatar’s extreme summer heat posed a problem. As a result, FIFA shifted the tournament to late fall.

This change caused complications for Fox, a major broadcasting partner, since the English-language rights in the United States had already been secured by them. The need to avoid a legal dispute led to the negotiation of the current advantageous terms for the 2026 World Cup rights, benefitting Fox significantly.