Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) is in a legal battle with Star India, which is backed by Reliance Industries Limited (RIL). Zeal has counterclaimed $8 million (plus interest) after Star India claimed $940 million in damages. The disagreement is about a failed deal for International Cricket Council (ICC) broadcasting rights, which is currently being discussed in a London court.
ZEEL had paid Star India ₹69 crore (about $8.4 million) as part of their agreement, but now ZEEL wants that money back because they say that Star didn’t keep its promises. ZEEL’s response was filled out on December 23, 2024. They say they shouldn’t have to pay anything because Star didn’t follow through on their part of the deal.
A team of three judges will help resolve the issue. Star India submitted their claims and expert reports about the money they feel they are owed.
The disagreement started with an agreement on August 26, 2022, where Star was supposed to give ZEEL the rights to show ICC men’s cricket events from 2024 to 2027. But after ZEEL dropped out, Star took over the media rights, which are worth about $3 billion.
Star claims that ZEEL didn’t pay the first installment of $203.56 million and owes more for various fees. Star began legal proceedings in March 2024 to force ZEEL to follow the agreement or to get damages. They later decided to cancel the agreement and only seek damages.
ZEEL argues that they should be refunded the ₹69 crore because Star didn’t meet their obligations. ZEEL believes they are in a strong position legally and doesn’t think this legal issue will harm their business. They’re keeping a close watch on the situation.
Previously, ZEEL mentioned that they could not move forward with the ICC agreement because of unmet conditions, such as financial commitments and approvals for the sub-licensing deal. Their plans to merge with Sony Pictures Networks India also affected this situation.
Star India reported a major loss of ₹12,548 crore for the financial year ending March 31, 2024, mainly because of a huge expense linked to the ICC media rights deal.
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