JioStar Raises ICC Rights Arbitration Claim Against Zee to Over $1 Billion

The long-running legal standoff between JioStar India and Zee Entertainment has intensified, with JioStar now claiming over $1 billion in damages, as per news reports. The arbitration arises from a terminated ICC broadcast rights deal for the 2024–2027 cycle. 

While JioStar, a joint venture between Reliance and Disney, accuses Zee of breaching contractual terms, Zee maintains that Star itself failed to fulfil obligations. The matter is now being heard before the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), with evidentiary proceedings set for November 2025.

Arbitration Intensifies Over Terminated Rights Deal

JioStar, formerly known as Star India, has formally increased its damages claim against Zee from $940 million to $1,003 million, as of 30 April 2025. This update came through Star’s latest filing on 13 June 2025, as confirmed in a stock exchange disclosure by Zee. 

The dispute stems from an agreement dated 26 August 2022, where Star sublicensed TV broadcasting rights for ICC Men’s and Under-19 events to Zee while retaining digital rights. 

Star had acquired the full Indian broadcast package for $3 billion, but the agreement with Zee required certain financial conditions, including a $203.56 million advance and corporate guarantees.

Claims, Counterclaims, and Arbitration Timeline

Star alleged that Zee defaulted by not paying the initial instalment and failing to provide the required guarantees, leading to its arbitration filing on 14 March 2024. Zee terminated the contract on 8 January 2024, accusing Star of a repudiatory breach, and demanded a refund of ₹685 million ($8 million) paid in commissions and interest. Star then switched from seeking specific performance to pursuing damages only. 

The LCIA received Star’s Statement of Case on 16 September 2024, and Zee submitted its Statement of Defence and Counterclaim on 23 December 2024. Both parties completed document discovery by 31 May 2025. Zee’s rejoinder is due by 8 August, with hearings scheduled for November.

Zee’s Stand and Future Outlook

Zee has denied Star’s accusations and reiterated its position that the contract was already repudiated by Star. The company said it expects no material adverse impact and that no changes are needed to its financials. “The claims made by Star are unfounded and legally not tenable,” Zee stated. 

CEO Punit Goenka has signalled openness to various resolution methods, saying during the Q4 earnings call, “We are open to all possibilities available to us, both legal and non-legal, including out-of-court settlements. But it’s too early to comment further.”

Also Read: BlueGod Entertainment Hits Upper Circuit After 1:10 Stock Split Approval!

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Share Price Performance 

As of July 23, 2025, at 9:34 AM, Zee Entertainment Enterprises share price is trading at ₹130.23 per share, reflecting a decline of 2.65% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 12.98%.

Conclusion

As the arbitration enters its decisive phase, the dispute between two media giants could significantly impact the Indian sports broadcasting landscape. With over $1 billion now at stake, all eyes are on the November hearings that will determine the future course of this high-profile ICC rights saga.

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