KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) today announced Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) as their new media partner in the Indian subcontinent, which includes India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. 

The deal includes all major AFC national team and club competitions, including but not limited to the final round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to Qatar, AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022, the AFC Asian Cup China 2023, as well as the annual club competitions, the AFC Champions League and the AFC Cup from the 2021 season.

FSDL was established to develop Indian football as the commercial partner of the All India Football Federation, and to operate India’s top tier football league, the Indian Super League. FSDL will be sub-licensing the media rights to partner channels and digital service providers, offering significantly more coverage of the AFC’s competitions on both linear and digital channels in a region where the passion for football has grown exponentially in recent years.

Dato’ Windsor John, the AFC General Secretary, said: “The AFC is delighted to enter into this partnership with FSDL, which represents another decisive step towards increasing the consumption of the AFC’s competitions and confirming football as Asia’s number one sport as outlined in the AFC’s Vision.

“We look forward to working with FSDL in expanding the fanbase of the AFC’s world-class competitions in a region that continues to showcase Asia’s undeniable passion for the game, and we thank them for believing in the future of Asian football.”

Mrs. Nita Ambani, Founder & Chairperson, FSDL said: “This is a hugely significant development for Indian football. To bring Asia’s best footballing action for our fans is a key part of our long-term strategy, commitment, and desire to have as many Indian youths participate, follow, and engage with the sport. I believe the live telecast of AFC competitions to our homes will enable a generation of youth to follow the “beautiful game” and continue to raise and develop the profile of the sport.

“We are fully committed to the development of Indian football and will continue to work with the stakeholders in India, AFC and the FIFA towards building a strong ecosystem.”

Patrick Murphy, Board Member and CEO at Football Marketing Asia, said: “We are excited to welcome FSDL as our valued media partner. FSDL has strong relationships with broadcasters throughout the Indian subcontinent who have the necessary experience and expertise in their local markets to further strengthen the presence of Asian football. We are looking forward to seeing more fans enjoy AFC competitions.”

(Report courtesy: AFC)