Zee Sports and Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League Forge Landmark Broadcast Deal

Zee Sports and the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) have announced a major three-year broadcast partnership. This exclusive deal was confirmed on November 3, 2025. It will bring the state-level kabaddi league to a national audience.

 

The agreement is a first for a regional sports property of this kind. It covers live television broadcast on Zee Sports and digital streaming on Zee5.

Strategic Partnership to Elevate Grassroots Kabaddi

The multi-year deal spans the upcoming Season 2 and extends through Seasons 3 and 4. UPKL Season 2 is scheduled to begin on December 25, 2025. It will feature 71 matches played over 19 days in Noida.

The league has expanded from its inaugural season. It now features 12 city-based franchises from across Uttar Pradesh.

This partnership aims to transform the league’s reach and commercial viability. According to Reuters, such media rights deals are crucial for the growth of non-cricketing sports in India. It provides a structured platform for nurturing local talent.

National Ambitions for a Regional Sport

Officials from both organizations highlighted the strategic importance of the alliance. Zee Sports sees it as a move to champion India’s indigenous sporting heritage. The vast distribution network of Zee will be leveraged to build a wider fanbase.

For UPKL founders, this marks a significant evolution. The league transitions from a regional initiative to a sporting enterprise with national viewership. This increased visibility is expected to benefit athletes, teams, and the sport’s ecosystem.

This landmark broadcast agreement for the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League signals a new chapter for kabaddi. It demonstrates growing commercial confidence in regional sports leagues. The national spotlight will now shine on Uttar Pradesh’s homegrown athletic talent.

Info at your fingertips

When does UPKL Season 2 start?

UPKL Season 2 kicks off on December 25, 2025. The event will be held in Noida. It will run for 19 days.

How many teams are in the UPKL?

The league has expanded to include 12 teams for its second season. These are city-based franchises from across Uttar Pradesh. Four new franchises were added this year.

Where can I watch the UPKL matches?

All matches will be broadcast live on Zee Sports. They will also be streamed live on the Zee5 digital platform. This provides both television and online viewing options.

What is the significance of this partnership?

This is the first time a state-level kabaddi league has secured a multi-year national broadcast deal. It greatly amplifies the league’s reach. This helps in professionalizing the sport at the grassroots level.

How long is the broadcast deal?

The agreement between Zee Sports and UPKL is for three years. It covers the upcoming Season 2, as well as Seasons 3 and 4. This provides long-term stability for the league.