Abhishek Bachchan reveals why he invested in sports and built a career beyond Bollywood. In a recent conversation with PwC India Chairperson Sanjeev Krishan on the Future Unplugged podcast, the actor spoke about his long-term connection with sports and his journey as a sports entrepreneur.
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Bachchan said his love for sports came from his father, Amitabh Bachchan. He remembered learning kabaddi in the family garden and being introduced to sporting legends such as Muhammad Ali, Pelé, Zico and Sócrates.
From Passion To Sports Ownership
Bachchan’s professional sports journey began with the Jaipur Pink Panthers in the Pro Kabaddi League. He did not treat the team simply as an investment. Instead, he became closely involved with its early development.
He moved to Jaipur before the league’s first season and spent time with the players. He also followed their diet and took interest in operational details. Bachchan said he never looked upon it as a business, adding humorously that his accountant was not very pleased with his approach.
Chennaiyin FC And A Bigger Vision
His sports investments later expanded to football with Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League. Bachchan noted that both kabaddi and football face a major challenge in India because cricket remains the country’s biggest sporting passion.
Despite this, he believes these sports can grow with time. His approach focuses on building strong teams and creating lasting value rather than seeking quick financial returns.
Building The European T20 League
Bachchan has also entered international cricket through the European T20 Premier League (ETPL). As a co-founder, he is involved in efforts to create a professional T20 competition across Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands.
He described Europe as the last major cricket market without a competitive T20 league. For Bachchan, building a league is more meaningful than simply owning an established team.
A Long-Term Sports Legacy
Bachchan said he enjoys building something and wants to create institutions that can continue growing. He also stressed the importance of investing his own capital before attracting partners who share the same long-term vision.
His sports journey reflects a desire to create a lasting legacy outside films. From the Jaipur Pink Panthers and Chennaiyin FC to the European T20 Premier League, Abhishek Bachchan reveals why sports has become an important part of his professional life.
For him, sports is not only about signing a cheque. It is about making a difference, supporting new sporting ecosystems and building something that can last.
