Lalit Kumar Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has announced that he has become a British citizen. Modi made the announcement while addressing the Oxford Union on November 14, 2026, describing it as a personal milestone and the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Modi said he received British citizenship on September 15, 2026, at a ceremony attended by his family and friends, and that the occasion would always hold a special place for him. Having lived in the United Kingdom for several years, he said he had developed a deep appreciation for the country's people, institutions, traditions and values.S1S2
He described British citizenship as both a privilege and a responsibility, adding that he embraced it with pride, gratitude and a sense of belonging. Modi also spoke about how his life had been shaped by different cultures and experiences, and said he looked forward to making a positive contribution to the country he now proudly calls home.S1
Modi thanked his family, friends and everyone who had supported him through the journey, and acknowledged the Oxford Union for providing a platform to share the news. He chose November 14 deliberately, noting it was also the birthday of King Charles III, and closed his statement with the words "God Save the King!"S1S2
