London, November 15, 2026 : Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has announced that he has acquired British citizenship after living in the United Kingdom for several years.
Modi shared the news on social media on Saturday, describing it as a “very special and personal milestone”. His announcement was accompanied by photographs from his citizenship ceremony, held at a London town hall on September 15, 2026.
🇬🇧 ‘PROUD TO BE A BRITISH CITIZEN’
In his post on X, Modi said the United Kingdom had been his home for many years and expressed admiration for its people, institutions, traditions and values.
He described British citizenship as both a privilege and a responsibility, adding that he looked forward to contributing positively to the country he now proudly calls home.
Modi also thanked his family, friends and the Oxford Union for providing an opportunity to share the announcement. He said the milestone marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
His announcement coincided with the birthday of King Charles III, which falls on November 14.
🏏 FROM IPL FOUNDER TO LIFE IN THE UK
Modi played a pivotal role in establishing the Indian Premier League, which transformed the commercial landscape of cricket following its launch in 2008.
He left India in May 2010 after being suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) amid allegations of financial irregularities relating to the IPL.
In 2015, a special court issued a non-bailable warrant against him after he failed to respond to summonses issued by the Enforcement Directorate in a money-laundering case.
Modi has strongly objected to being described as a fugitive, maintaining that he has not been convicted of any criminal offence.
⚖️ FEMA CASE AND LEGAL BACKGROUND
In July 2026, an appellate tribunal set aside a penalty imposed on Modi in a separate case under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), relating to the IPL’s 2009 edition in South Africa.
The tribunal’s decision concerned that particular FEMA case and should not be interpreted as resolving other proceedings or allegations involving Modi.
🌍 A NEW CHAPTER IN LONDON
Announcing his citizenship, Modi reflected on a life shaped by different cultures and experiences, expressing gratitude for the journey that brought him to this point.
His announcement marks a significant personal development for the controversial cricket administrator, whose career remains closely associated with the creation of the IPL and the legal disputes that followed his departure from India.
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