Meet the stars who own franchises in various sporting leagues

From Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla, co-owners of the celebrated IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, to Preity Zinta, co-owner of Kings XI Punjab, and the latest entrants, actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani and his wife, actor Rakul Preet Singh, who own Hyderabad Superstars in the World Pickleball League, celebrities bring undeniable charisma to any game.

Here’s a look at some of the most prominent celebrities backing popular sports franchises.

Abhishek Bachchan (Jaipur Pink Panthers – Pro Kabaddi League)

Jaipur Pink Panthers (JPP) is a professional Kabaddi team from Jaipur that competes in the Pro Kabaddi League, a premier tournament showcasing one of India’s traditional sports. Adding to its star power, the team is owned by Abhishek Bachchan. JPP plays its home games at the Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium and is the second-most successful team in league history, having won two titles.

Jackky Bhagnani & Rakul Preet Singh (Hyderabad Superstars – World Pickleball League)

The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is revolutionising professional pickleball with innovative rules that make the sport more strategic and engaging. A dynamic blend of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity among celebrities and players of all ages worldwide. With stars like Jackky Bhagnani and his wife, actor Rakul Preet Singh, co-owning the Hyderabad Superstars franchise, the sport has become a prime attraction for its ability to cultivate a culture of camaraderie, wellness and enjoyment.

Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla (Kolkata Knight Riders-IPL)

As IPL 2025 gears to kick off this April, all eyes will be on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as they aim to defend their title as reigning champions. One of the most successful franchises in IPL history, KKR’s popularity isn’t just due to its star-studded lineup including the formidable Sunil Narine and Andre Russell, but also because of the presence of Shah Rukh Khan and his co-owner, Juhi Chawla. With this celebrity duo at the helm, KKR is expected to put up a strong performance once again. Beyond its celebrity ownership, KKR has cemented its legacy with championship victories in 2012, 2014, and 2024.

Riteish Deshmukh & Genelia D’Souza (Pune United – World Pickleball League)

Joining hands with a consortium of owners, including corporate leaders Sudhir and Sunanda Mehta from EKA Mobility and Pinnacle Industries, Bollywood couple Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh are co-owners of Pune United in the World Pickleball League. The duo states that their mission is to nourish a deep love for the game.  The couple says that beyond the financial aspect, pickleball is an exciting activity that uplifts and energises people.

John Abraham (Northeast United FC – ISL)

Northeast United FC, representing the eight states of Northeast India, is owned by actor John Abraham and Shillong Lajong Football Club. The team’s biggest success came last year when it defied all odds to defeat Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup final. After 11 years of owning the franchise, John’s perseverance against corporate-backed teams proved that determination and belief ultimately lead to success. Though Northeast United has yet to win an ISL title, John’s support and inspiration have built a strong fan base and huge popularity for the team