In one of the biggest ownership shake-ups in Indian Premier League history, Shah Rukh Khan is set to take over 90% ownership of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise by paying ₹4,000 crore to the Mehta Group. The move would significantly consolidate control of the IPL team under the Bollywood superstar and mark a major milestone in celebrity-led sports investments in India.
The deal highlights the soaring valuations of IPL franchises and the growing convergence of entertainment, sports, and big capital.
Details of the KKR Ownership Deal
Under the proposed transaction, Shah Rukh Khan will acquire an additional stake in Kolkata Knight Riders, raising his ownership to around 90%. The remaining stake is currently held by the Mehta Group, which is expected to receive ₹4,000 crore for the sale.
Once completed, Shah Rukh Khan would become the dominant controlling shareholder of the franchise.
Background: KKR’s Ownership Structure
Kolkata Knight Riders was originally acquired in 2008 by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment in partnership with Juhi Chawla and Jay Mehta. Over the years, KKR has grown into one of the IPL’s most valuable and recognisable franchises, driven by on-field success and strong global branding.
The current deal would significantly reduce the Mehta Group’s role in the franchise’s ownership.
Why Shah Rukh Khan Is Increasing His Stake
KKR has evolved into a multi-league global sports brand with teams in leagues outside India as well. By taking majority control, Shah Rukh Khan gains greater strategic flexibility over expansion, branding, sponsorships, and long-term investments.
The move also reflects strong confidence in the long-term commercial growth of the IPL ecosystem.
₹4,000 Crore Valuation Signals IPL Boom
Paying ₹4,000 crore for a 90% stake implies a massive valuation for KKR, underscoring how IPL franchises have become premium sports assets. Media rights growth, sponsorship deals, merchandising, and global fan engagement have driven franchise values sharply higher in recent years.
Industry analysts say IPL teams are now comparable to top global sports franchises in terms of commercial potential.
Impact on IPL and Sports Business
The deal reinforces the trend of concentrated ownership and professionalised management in the IPL. With clearer control, franchises can move faster on investments in analytics, training infrastructure, fan engagement, and overseas expansion.
It also signals to investors that IPL franchises remain attractive long-term assets despite rising costs.
What It Means for Fans and the Team
For fans, the ownership change is unlikely to affect day-to-day operations or team identity. Shah Rukh Khan has been closely associated with KKR since its inception, and the franchise’s brand is already deeply linked to his persona.
Operational continuity and team management are expected to remain stable.
Regulatory and Approval Process
The transaction will be subject to approvals from the IPL governing council and other regulatory bodies. Once cleared, the ownership restructuring is expected to be formally announced.
Such approvals are standard for significant stake changes in IPL franchises.
Broader Trend of Celebrity-Led Sports Ownership
Shah Rukh Khan’s move reflects a broader global trend where celebrities and entertainment companies deepen investments in sports franchises. Sports teams are increasingly seen as long-term brand assets with global reach.
In India, the IPL remains the most powerful platform for this convergence.
Conclusion
The development that Shah Rukh Khan will take over 90% ownership of KKR by paying ₹4,000 crore to the Mehta Group marks a landmark moment in IPL history. It underscores the league’s explosive valuation growth and Shah Rukh Khan’s long-term commitment to building KKR as a global sports brand.
As the IPL continues to expand its influence, ownership moves of this scale highlight how cricket franchises have become some of India’s most valuable entertainment properties.
