July 28, Mumbai: Cricket may still be India’s biggest sport, but it is no longer the only one attracting attention. Over the past few years, leagues such as the Indian Super League (football), Pro Kabaddi League, Hockey India League, World Pickleball League, and the World Padel League have helped bring new sports into the spotlight, creating opportunities for athletes and expanding the country’s sporting landscape.
India’s sports industry is also growing rapidly. As per WPP Media’s Sporting Nation 2025 report, the sports industry was valued at ₹18,864 crore in 2025, almost double its size from ₹9,530 crore in 2021. While cricket still accounts for the largest share, more brands, corporate groups and celebrities are investing in sports beyond cricket.
Here are five investors helping shape India’s multi-sport future:
- Vedanta Group
The Vedanta Group has built one of the strongest multi-sport portfolios in India. It owns the Vedanta Leopards in the World Padel League and the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League. Through the Vedanta Sports Programme, the group also supports athletes in boxing, athletics, wrestling, shooting and archery, with a strong focus on grassroots development and Olympic sports.
- JSW Sports
JSW Sports has become one of India’s biggest investors in sport. Its portfolio includes Bengaluru FC in football, Haryana Steelers in kabaddi and Soorma Hockey Club in hockey. It also runs the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), one of India’s leading high-performance centres for Olympic athletes.
- Vashu Bhagnani
Producer and entrepreneur Vashu Bhagnani has expanded his sporting portfolio through racket sports. He owns VB Realty Cheetahs in the World Padel League and VB Realty Hawks in the World Tennis League, making him one of the few investors with teams across both padel and tennis.
- John Abraham
John Abraham has been one of the earliest celebrity investors in Indian football through NorthEast United FC in the Indian Super League. He has also entered motorsport as the owner of Goa Aces JA Racing in the Indian Racing League, continuing to support sports beyond cricket.
- Abhishek Bachchan
Abhishek Bachchan has played an important role in the growth of kabaddi through the Jaipur Pink Panthers, one of the Pro Kabaddi League’s most successful teams. He is also co-owner of Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League, giving him successful investments across two of India’s biggest professional leagues outside cricket.
As more corporates, entrepreneurs and celebrities invest beyond cricket, leagues like the World Padel League are helping broaden India’s sporting landscape. Season 4, to be held in Mumbai from August 12–16, will bring together 36 international stars across six franchises, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity in the country. Tickets for the tournament are available on BookMyShow.
