FIFA Timings Disappoint Hyderabad Fans

Hyderabad: Billed as the largest combat sports event, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has added new technologies to television broadcasting. However, Indian viewers were left disappointed as the match timings did not suit pubs, clubs or sports bars for live screenings. The only saving grace was the Argentina-Egypt match on Tuesday at 21:00, with large crowds attending the public screenings.

Jayesh from Gachibowli Ten Downing Street said the turnout was very high as the match coincided with working hours. Fans came to the field with their team jerseys and enjoyed the exciting match. “During live screenings, customers are in the best mood and business picks up, similar to cricket matches,” he said.

There are 104 matches in the World Cup. Fans in Hyderabad chose their favorite countries and star players; Social media news and updates also added to the frenzy. However, the timings in the host countries USA, Canada and Mexico are not in line with the Indian timings.

Varun Peter Jaldi, a corporate employee, said he and his IT colleagues often watch matches together at sports bars. “This time FIFA timing did not suit us. We miss hangouts,” he said.

Asset manager and former football player Mahmood Ali said that many legendary players appeared in FIFA for the last time and attracted the attention of the fans. “Due to timings, we have to watch it at home or catch repeat broadcasts. Last World Cup, we watched it at Nizam Club as the timings were suitable. This time it failed,” he said.

Fewer than 50 matches are played in the Cricket World Cups but huge revenue is generated from the screenings in Hyderabad. FIFA could not achieve this effect with more than 100 matches.

Ketan Agarwal, manager of Fat Pigeon, Chubby Cho and Peanuts bars, said: “FIFA brings in revenue globally, but timings and government restrictions affect screenings here. The big game has not brought much business to Hyderabad.”