Just 48 hours after the IPL 2026 auction concluded, a major development has emerged around former champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). According to reports, the Shah Rukh Khan-owned franchise is preparing to sell a minority stake ahead of the new season. If confirmed, KKR would become the third IPL team linked to ownership changes in recent weeks, after Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals.
Report Claims Partial Sale in KKR Ownership
As per a Moneycontrol report, Knight Riders Sports Private Limited, which owns KKR, could begin the process of selling a small stake in 2026. Unlike RCB and Rajasthan Royals, where full ownership changes are being discussed, KKR’s case is expected to involve only a partial sale.
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The report adds that the Mehta Group, which holds a significant share in the franchise, is considering selling a small portion of its stake. Importantly, this move is not expected to impact the overall control or decision-making structure of the franchise.
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How KKR Ownership Is Structured
Kolkata Knight Riders are jointly owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, actress Juhi Chawla, and her husband Jay Mehta. The franchise operates under Knight Riders Sports Private Limited.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment owns a 55 percent stake in the team, while the Mehta Group holds the remaining 45 percent. As per reports, only a fraction of the Mehta Group’s share may be offered for sale, ensuring that the existing ownership balance remains largely unchanged.
KKR’s Journey in the IPL
KKR are one of the original eight franchises that have been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008. The team was purchased for USD 75 million (around Rs 298 crore at the time), making it one of the league’s most valuable teams even back then.
On the field, KKR have enjoyed significant success. They won their first IPL title in 2012 under Gautam Gambhir’s captaincy and repeated the feat in 2014. After a long wait, the franchise lifted its third IPL trophy in 2024 under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer.
How KKR’s Case Differs From RCB and RR
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s owner Diageo has already confirmed plans to complete a full sale of the franchise before March 2026. Rajasthan Royals are also reportedly exploring a complete ownership change. KKR’s situation, however, is very different, with only a minority stake sale under consideration.
With the IPL’s valuation continuing to rise, even a small stake sale could attract massive interest. While nothing has been officially confirmed yet, the report has certainly added another major talking point ahead of IPL 2026.