Indian Premier League (IPL) founder and former commissioner Lalit Modi has officially acquired British citizenship, marking a significant milestone in his life after years of residing in the United Kingdom.

Modi announced the development during his address at the prestigious Oxford Union, describing British citizenship as a proud and important achievement.

Taking to social media platform X, Lalit Modi revealed that he was formally granted British citizenship on September 15, 2026, during a special ceremony attended by family members and friends.

Expressing his happiness, Modi said that becoming British was both a privilege and a responsibility that he embraced with pride, gratitude and a deep sense of belonging.

He also described the United Kingdom as his home for several years, expressing admiration for its people, institutions, traditions and values.

In his message, Modi additionally referred to the birthday of King Charles III and concluded with the words, “God Save the King!”

From IPL Founder to British Citizen

Lalit Modi played a pivotal role in launching the Indian Premier League in 2008. As the league's founding commissioner and chairman, he helped transform the IPL into one of the world's most commercially successful T20 cricket competitions.

However, his association with the league came to an end in 2010 following allegations of financial irregularities and controversies surrounding IPL administration.

Modi subsequently left India and settled in the United Kingdom, where he has continued to reside and pursue his business and personal activities.

Since leaving India, he has remained embroiled in legal and financial controversies. Indian authorities have pursued legal proceedings and efforts to bring him back to the country in connection with various allegations.

Lalit Modi Begins a New Chapter

With British citizenship now officially granted, Lalit Modi says he is looking forward to beginning a new chapter of his life.

He has expressed his desire to contribute positively to the country that he now proudly considers his home.

His citizenship announcement has once again brought the IPL founder into the spotlight, reigniting discussions surrounding his controversial departure from India and his long-standing legal battles.