The dispute centres on the access included with ZEE5’s World Cup plans:
Several subscribers reportedly bought the cheaper package before the tournament expecting family members to watch matches separately. Some now allege that access has effectively been reduced to one device, despite the original multi-screen promotion.
That gap matters because the 2026 World Cup’s North American schedule creates late-night kick-offs in India. Shared viewing on one television is less practical when matches run into the early hours, particularly in larger households.
The complaints became more visible around the tournament’s opening weekend, when demand for live access was at its highest. Users reportedly faced restrictions while matches were in progress, leaving little opportunity to troubleshoot before key moments had passed.
For a paid sports package, reliability is part of the product. A subscriber who can watch on one screen but not the number advertised has a different experience from someone receiving the promised service, even if the stream itself is technically working.
The report says ZEE5 had not responded to questions about the complaints at the time of publication. That leaves subscribers waiting for clarity on whether the restrictions are temporary, technical or linked to a change in plan terms.
The next test will come as more World Cup fixtures bring late-night audiences online. ZEE5’s response-and whether affected users receive a practical fix-could shape trust in its future sports subscription campaigns.