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5 biggest sports events to watch out for in 2026
The sporting calendar of 2026 promises thrilling events for fans globally, especially in India. Key highlights include the FIFA World Cup (June 11 - July 19), featuring 48 nations.
Koushik Biswas
Dec 26, 2025
5 biggest sports events to watch out for in 2026. Graphic by OTTplay
The sporting calendar of 2026 is already shaping up to be a monumental year for fans across the globe, and particularly for the enthusiastic Indian audience. With major tournaments spanning cricket, football, and multisport extravaganzas, there’s no shortage of high-octane action to look forward to. For Indian viewers, the accessibility of these events through OTTplay Premium will make them enjoy the tournaments on a single platform. Here’s a detailed look at five of the biggest sports events set to captivate the nation in 2026.
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1. FIFA World Cup 2026
What it is: The pinnacle of international football, where 48 nations will battle it out for the most coveted trophy in sports.
Why it’s big in India: While India might not be a footballing giant, the FIFA World Cup commands a massive following. The spectacle, the drama, the underdog stories, and the sheer global scale of the event resonate deeply.
The expansion to 48 teams means more matches and potentially more upsets, keeping fans glued to their screens from the group stages to the final. This tournament will be particularly significant as it’s the first to feature 48 teams, promising more diverse representation and exciting matchups.
When is it: June 11 – July 19, 2026. The opening match will be held in Mexico City, with the grand final taking place in New York/New Jersey.
Venues: Co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
How to watch it: Indian fans will be able to watch the whole tournament on OTTplay Premium via the main broadcasters, which have yet to be announced.
2. ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026
What it is: The biennial global Twenty20 cricket championship organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Why it’s big in India: This is arguably the most anticipated event for the Indian audience, given the nation’s fervent passion for cricket, especially the T20 format.
As defending champions, India's performance will dictate the nation's mood. The fast-paced, high-scoring nature of T20 cricket guarantees exhilarating contests.
When is it: 7 February – 8 March 2026
Venues: Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. This home advantage for India will further heighten expectations and viewership.
How to watch it: Cricket fans in India will be able to stream every match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on OTTPlay Premium via Jio Hotstar.
Read also: 5 players who could define ICC T20 World Cup 2026
3. Commonwealth Games 2026 (Victoria 2026)
What it is: A multi-sport event involving athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations, which serves as a pivotal place before the Olympics.
Why it’s big in India: India has a strong tradition at the Commonwealth Games, especially in sports like wrestling, boxing, weightlifting, badminton, and athletics.
The chance to see Indian athletes compete for medals on a global stage, particularly after a successful outing in 2022, always generates significant national interest. The feel-good stories of Indian athletes overcoming odds and bringing home glory resonate deeply with the public.
When is it: March 17 – March 29, 2026.
Venues: Regional Victoria, Australia.
How to watch it: People in India can watch the Commonwealth Games 2026 on OTTplay Premium, via SonyLIV.
Read also: 10 underdog wins in football that defined 2025
4. Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026
What it is: The world’s biggest franchise-based T20 cricket league, featuring top international and domestic talent.
Why it’s big in India: For many fans in India, the IPL is more than a tournament; it’s a "summer festival."
After a packed international calendar including the T20 World Cup earlier in the year, the IPL provides nearly two months of non-stop entertainment.
It is also the first season where Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) enters as defending champions after their historic maiden title win in 2025.
When is it: March 26 – May 31, 2026.
Format: The tournament is expanding to 84 matches (up from 74). It will feature 10 teams competing in a home-and-away format, followed by the standard four-match playoff structure.
How to watch it: IPL 2026 will be available LIVE on OTTplay Premium via JioHotstar.
Read also: 10 players with the most goals in international football in 2025
5. FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026
What it is: The premier international basketball competition for men's national teams.
Why it’s big in India: While basketball is still growing in India, events like the FIBA World Cup offer a glimpse into the highest echelons of the sport. The sheer athleticism, skill, and global appeal of basketball, particularly from powerhouses like the USA, Canada, and European teams, attract a niche but dedicated following.
Unfortunately, India's women's national team did not finish in the top positions in the 2025 FIBA Women's Asia Cup to secure a spot in the final global qualifying stage.
When is it: Fri, 4 Sept, 2026 – Sun, 13 Sept, 2026.
Venues: Berlin, Germany
How to watch it: Although there has been no confirmation on the streaming details, it will surely be available on OTTplay Premium via the actual broadcaster.
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