New Delhi: As IPL 2026 approaches, a major off-field development has taken center stage, with Rajasthan RoyalsChampions of the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), is being acquired in a massive $1.63 billion deal by a consortium led by US-based business Call Somani. Despite the scale of the deal, the ownership transfer will only take place after the end of the 2026 season, meaning the current structure will remain in place for now.Somani is not new to the franchise, having been a minority investor since 2021.
With this latest move, he is set to take full control, significantly increasing the global value of the franchise. Known for his strong presence in the US tech industry, Somani heads companies such as IntraEdge, Truyo & Truyo.AI, and Academia and has gradually expanded his interests into the world of sports through investment and ownership roles.What makes this acquisition particularly noteworthy is the high level of backing behind Somani’s consortium. Among the key names is Rob Walton, heir to the Walmart fortune and owner of the NFL’s Denver Broncos, widely considered one of the richest sports owners in the United States. The group also includes the Hemp family, headed by Sheila Ford Hemp, who owns the Detroit Lions and is part of the Ford Motor Company legacy. Somani has long expressed confidence in the future of the IPL. Talking about his earlier investment in 2021, he said, “We see huge potential with this investment, and we are excited for the future of the IPL”. His continued commitment indicates a broader belief in the league’s rapid growth.
