Iran Limits 2026 World Cup Draw to State TV Broadcasts

SATRA, the Organization for the Regulation of Audiovisual Media, has announced that home entertainment platforms in Iran are prohibited from live streaming the 2026 World Cup draw independently. The decision stems from exclusive broadcasting rights purchased by the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB).

Abbas Sayyah Taheri, Deputy for Users and Social Regulation at SATRA, stated that the national media holds the exclusive rights to broadcast this event in Persian. As per the directive, platforms licensed by SATRA may only air the event through IRIB's designated platform.

History of Broadcast Exclusivity

This is not the first instance of exclusive broadcasting rights restricting live sports coverage on digital platforms. Similar limitations were implemented during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

What sets this case apart is the justification provided. Previously, SATRA referenced the purchase of broadcasting rights within Iran's geographic borders. However, Sayyah Taheri's recent remarks highlighted exclusive rights to broadcast in the Persian language.

In contrast, a recent letter from Ali Mehregan, Director General of Licensing and Media Affairs at SATRA, omitted any mention of language or geographic boundaries. The letter focused solely on enforcing a general prohibition against independent live streaming of the event.