The government has announced that FIFA World Cup matches will be broadcast live across Bangladesh through television and large public screens, ensuring nationwide access for football fans, Youth and Sports State Minister Md Aminul Haque said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Press Information Department (PID) conference room in Dhaka, the state minister said that all uncertainties surrounding broadcasting rights in Bangladesh have now been resolved. He confirmed that matches will be aired through Bangladesh Television and other rights-holding platforms.
The government also plans to set up giant screens at key locations in Dhaka and other parts of the country so that people can watch matches collectively. According to the minister, the initiative aims to accommodate the strong public interest in football, particularly during late-night and early-morning match schedules.
State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman also spoke at the briefing, outlining the arrangements and coordination efforts behind the broadcasting plan.
Aminul Haque said that several private companies have already expressed interest in partnering with the initiative. The government has encouraged private participation, while providing overall support for setting up large monitors and digital displays in public spaces.
He further said that the broadcast rights were secured at a significantly lower cost compared to previous arrangements, with the government spending Tk47 crore - compared to around Tk100 crore earlier - to acquire the rights through a transparent process.
Officials said advertising revenue is expected to offset the expenditure, making the arrangement financially sustainable.
State Minister Aminul urged media outlets to help inform the public so that football enthusiasts across the country can participate in the World Cup viewing experience.
