Reliance-Disney To End Free IPL Streaming In India, Sources Reveal

Cricket fans in India will soon see a shift in the way they stream the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Reliance-Disney joint venture is moving away from fully free IPL streaming , opting for a hybrid model where users will need a subscription after crossing a certain viewing threshold, sources told Reuters.

New Streaming StrategyJioCinema had been offering IPL matches for free since securing a five-year, $3 billion streaming deal in 2023. Now, the platform will introduce a usage-based paywall, ensuring viewers can access some content without charge before being prompted to subscribe.

"Once a user develops affinity to the platform, start watching free, becomes loyal ... the subscription will kick in then," said the first source, adding that each user's subscription may begin at a different time.

Subscription Plans & Rebranded AppA newly rebranded streaming app will be launched under the joint venture. Plans will start at 149 rupees ($1.72), while an ad-free version will be available for 499 rupees ($5.75) for three months.

Reliance-Disney's Expanding EmpireThe Reliance-Disney entity controls over 100 TV channels and streaming platforms, competing in India’s $28-billion media and entertainment sector against Netflix and Amazon Prime. It boasts a robust sports catalog, including IPL, the Winter Olympics, and Indian Super League football. Meanwhile, Disney’s Hotstar holds rights to ICC tournaments and the English Premier League.

Strategic Leadership & Decision MakingKey decisions are being led by Vice Chairman Uday Shankar, a media veteran instrumental in Hotstar’s rise. With this new model, the joint venture aims to maximize user loyalty before introducing paid subscriptions.

As IPL remains one of the most-watched events in India, this move marks a major shift in digital streaming strategies, blending free and paid access to drive long-term revenue.