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Riyadh: The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to stand out as a benchmark for sustainable sports business growth in emerging markets and remains one of the most attractive opportunities for global investors, according to Marc Ganis, Managing Director of Sportscorp, a leading US-based sports investment and advisory firm. Speaking exclusively to Times Network on the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9) in Riyadh, Ganis said the outlook for the IPL remains “bullish”, with significant long-term upside for both domestic and international investors. “The future of IPL remains bullish, with long-term upside for investors,” Ganis said. “India’s large economy and population make cricket a high-value global sport.” The American sports advisor highlighted cricket’s strong growth potential, describing it as one of the next major breakout opportunities worldwide. “Cricket is now about to join the Olympics and it’s going to be a permanent part of the Games, not just a demonstration sport. That gives it global legitimacy and visibility,” he said. IPL’s Global Expansion Model Ganis pointed out that the IPL model, combining strong local fan engagement, corporate ownership, and lucrative media rights, is now being replicated across the world. “The Indian IPL model is driving global expansion, with franchises owning teams in multiple countries,” he said, noting that groups like Knight Riders are leading the charge with ownership stakes across the US, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. While foreign investors have expressed strong interest in the IPL ecosystem, Ganis said they face “stiff competition from Indian buyers due to high local interest.” He added that large investment funds, not individual investors, are likely to be the first to enter IPL ownership structures. “Major funds like Arctos, Ares, and Apollo are already exploring IPL franchise investments,” he revealed. He also emphasised that broadcast and digital rights will be a major catalyst for IPL’s next phase of valuation growth. “Direct-to-consumer streaming is expected to be a key valuation driver for IPL,” Ganis noted, predicting that digital engagement would further deepen fan loyalty and revenue opportunities. As India cements its position as the global epicenter of cricket, Ganis said the IPL’s blend of scale, innovation, and fan intensity will keep attracting capital for years to come. About FII9 Under the theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth,” FII9 convenes the world’s most influential policymakers, innovators, investors, and heads of state to shape strategies for sustainable and inclusive global development. Organised by the FII Institute, a global nonprofit focused on driving progress through investments in AI and robotics, sustainability, healthcare, and education, the event transforms bold ideas into actionable solutions with real-world impact. WATCH | FII9 Riyadh: Marc Ganis On The Future Of Sports Investment And The IPL Model
