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The billionaire, Bollywood and the future of Indian football

Published

6 years ago

July 5, 2020

MUMBAI (Reuters) – A storm could be brewing in India’s top-flight football, a glamorous and acrimonious world that encompasses Asia’s richest man, the cream of Bollywood and a self-styled former gangster.

Mukesh Ambani, the billionaire tycoon who commands the Reliance Industries corporate empire that owns the Indian Super League, is facing pushback to his family’s dominance from some executives in the country’s football association and clubs.

At stake is the financial future of football in a country devoted to cricket. The outcome of the power struggle could also help shape whether India can ever become a world force in the game, realising ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter’s description of being a “sleeping giant” – and, of course, the big dream: whether it can one day play in or even host a World Cup.

Ambani’s holding group launched the Indian Super League, an elite competition of newly created teams, in 2014 with the aim of attracting investment and big global names, much like the Indian Premier League has in cricket.

However tensions have been building over who ultimately calls the shots: the Indian football association, which technically governs football at all levels, or Ambani’s group which owns the top league of 10 teams.

It’s a rare power split in global football, and a recent dispute between Ambani’s camp and the association illustrated differing visions over the direction of the Indian game, whose national team is ranked 108th globally.

This year, before the COVID-19 pandemic, a top executive at India’s football association, Kushal Das, wrote to Martin Bain, the Ambani lieutenant who heads Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), a Reliance holding company that owns the league.

The national coach, employed by the association, has complained that the enlisting of so many foreign recruits in Indian football could hold back the development of home-grown players. Das, in a March email exchange seen by Reuters, said the governing body had the right to limit the number of foreign players allowed to compete in the Super League.

The dismissal was swift.

“Contrary to the position in your email, all competition regulations rather need approval from FSDL,” Bain responded, according to a copy of the email exchange seen by Reuters.

The football association backed down for this season.

Representatives for Reliance and FSDL did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this article. The football association’s media director, Nilanjan Datta, declined to comment, but said questions about tensions with FSDL were “baseless”.

Requests for comment from Bain and Das, via FSDL and the association, were not responded to.

Indian game of two halves

The player issue is disputed globally; some argue imported veterans stand in the way of domestic talent, while others say they haul up standards and share skills and experience.

But the exchange also reflects a conflict within the Indian game.

FSDL and the Ambani family’s supporters says the Super League has raised awareness and money for a disorderly and underinvested sector, and brought in marquee players such as Italy’s Alessandro Del Piero and France’s Robert Pires.

Ambani’s wife Nita, FSDL’s chair and the public face of the league, has expressed hope India will qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and one day host the event. And some Super League club owners are committed to what they consider a football revolution.

“Indian players are benefiting from the arrival of quality foreigners and coaches,” said Mandar Tamhane, CEO of JSW Bengaluru FC. “Football has become a lot more tactical and technical,” he added. “The exposure has helped Indian football develop.”

But the Ambanis’ influence is resented by some club owners in India’s traditional football league, the I-League, who say the Super League is sucking attention and investment from the rest of the game and stunting its long-term development.

“This is a hostile takeover if there ever was one. They basically own football,” said Ranjit Bajaj, a self-described former gangster who found redemption in football, and a prominent figure in the game who took Punjab’s I-League side to a national championship in 2018 as its owner. “It’s really sad.”

The Ambanis did not respond to requests for comment made via Reliance.

The family is accustomed to domestic business dominance.

The Reliance empire, with a market value of about $153 billion, includes India’s leading telecom firm, a major retailer, its largest refining complex, a news outlet and a Bollywood studio. The group’s revenue last fiscal year accounted for around 3% of India’s $2.9 trillion economy.

‘Such a difficult situation’

Reliance and partner IMG Worldwide bailed out the cash-strapped football association a decade ago, pledging around $140 million over 15 years in return for sponsorship, licensing rights and running the Super League.

The association remains dependent on the deal money. It sent six emails to Reliance executives between May and October last year, reviewed by Reuters, saying payments of $6 million had not been received. One warned of a “severe cash flow crunch” and said the association had to put payments to suppliers on hold.

A Reliance executive answered twice, once saying it would take more time to release the payment and then saying the payment was in process.

Reliance did not respond to requests for comment on this email exchange.

The football association has considered whether it would be possible to renegotiate parts of the contract, according to an audio recording reviewed by Reuters of its president speaking to I-League executives at a meeting last year, although it is not clear which parts.

“When you’re dealing with a giant like FSDL, whose parent is Reliance, legally you will land up in such a difficult situation,” association President Praful Patel said in the July meeting.

He said FSDL had saved the association from falling into debt, adding “They have invested so much money.”

Patel did not respond to requests for comment made via the football association.

Business meets Bollywood

Thus far, however, the Super League itself is proving neither hugely popular nor lucrative – a rarity for an Ambani venture. Stadium attendances have halved over the past six years, and the pandemic is likely to worsen the situation.

Of course, creating a profitable league in cricket-mad India was always going to be a tough task. But industry veterans say Ambani erred by excluding India’s original clubs and creating a standalone tournament without promotion or relegation.

“It was 100% a wasted opportunity. The money coming in is welcome, but it should be spent in a proper manner – not just creating a hype,” said leading sports commentator Novy Kapadia.

The Super League’s original eight clubs were owned by Bollywood heavyweights like Ranbir Kapoor, cricket champions including Sachin Tendulkar and prominent businessmen, though several have since exited. Two new teams joined in 2017.

Ambani’s group initially projected, in 2014, that clubs would be profitable within about five years, according to an industry source with direct knowledge of the matter.

However none of original eight clubs, whose latest financial statements were reviewed by Reuters, had broken even by March 2019, save for Bengaluru, with about $234,000 in profit.

FSDL, of which Reliance owns 65% and Walt Disney-owned broadcaster Star India 35%, has significant control over clubs, according to a draft 2014 contract seen by Reuters.

Clubs must select coaches from a league-approved list, cannot sell shares without approval and must spend at least $500,000 per season on marketing.

Star India referred questions to FSDL.

Sports commentator Kapadia said the league’s future depended on billionaires continuing to bankroll their clubs, especially as the next season could be delayed and played without foreign players or spectators due to the coronavirus.

“The hit will be very severe,” he said, but added the league would continue “as long as there are enough rich people in India to burn money”.

Reporting and photo: Reuters

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World record freediver Hanli Prinsloo to lead retreats at two Maldives resorts

Published

2 hours ago

August 19, 2026

m@ldives

Following the success of her 2025 freediving retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, eleven-time freediving world-record holder and ocean conservationist Hanli Prinsloo will return to Baa Atoll this September with an expanded programme across two Minor Hotels resorts.

Hanli will begin with a Family Freediving Retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives from 7 to 10 September before continuing to NH Collection Maldives Reethi for Into the Blue, a four-night retreat running from 14 to 18 September. Together, the two experiences offer different ways to explore the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, from a playful introduction for families to a more immersive programme for beginners and experienced freedivers aged 16 and above.

At Avani+ Fares, Hanli will introduce parents and children to freediving through breathwork, floating, snorkelling, gentle duck dives and underwater games. The focus is not on depth or competition, but on helping families build confidence in the water, understand their breathing and experience the ocean together at a comfortable pace.

The Family Freediving Retreat will open the resort’s annual Ocean Aware Month, a September programme dedicated to marine discovery and conservation. Activities will include coral conservation and planting workshops, underwater photography and videography sessions, beach clean-ups and PADI speciality courses.

On 17 September, Avani+ Fares will celebrate World Manta Day with marine-inspired art workshops for all ages and snorkelling excursions to Hanifaru Bay, known for its seasonal gatherings of manta rays.

“Baa Atoll keeps calling us back,” said Hanli Prinsloo. “Following last year’s retreat at Avani+ Fares, I am excited to return with a full family programme and to continue the journey at NH Collection Maldives Reethi. At Avani+ Fares, we will make freediving playful and approachable for parents and children. At Reethi, guests will have more time to develop their skills through breathwork, training and exploration. Both retreats are about building confidence in the ocean and understanding why this remarkable environment deserves our care.”

In addition, Hanli will host the four-night Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi. Open to guests aged 16 and above who are comfortable swimming, the programme combines yoga, meditation and guided breathing with house reef snorkelling, rope freediving and drift dives. Beginners and experienced freedivers can train together while progressing at their own pace.

The retreat will also include an excursion to Hanifaru Bay, approximately 15 minutes from the resort. At Reethi, guests can continue exploring from the island’s house reef, which supports marine life including angelfish, clownfish, reef sharks and sea turtles.

The three-night Family Freediving Retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives starts from USD 3,160 per person, based on single occupancy. The package includes accommodation, full board, return seaplane transfers and all retreat sessions. Ocean Aware Month activities are complimentary for resort guests, subject to availability.

The four-night Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi starts from USD 4,333 net per adult, inclusive of accommodation on full board, return seaplane transfers and the full retreat programme.

For details and reservations, visit world.nh-hotels.com/en/nh-collection-maldives-reethi, email reservations.nree@nhcollection.com or call +960 660 2626.

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Tennis stars Elena Rybakina and Ana Ivanović set for JOALI Maldives residencies

Published

22 hours ago

August 18, 2026

m@ldives

JOALI Maldives has announced two exclusive tennis residencies with Grand Slam champions Elena Rybakina and Ana Ivanović, bringing world-class tennis to the island across November and the festive season.

Designed for both adults and younger players, the residencies offer guests the rare opportunity to step onto the court with two of the sport’s most accomplished athletes through intimate clinics and camps that combine technique, confidence, discipline and the joy of the game.

Set within JOALI Maldives’ philosophy of Creative Living, the programme brings a dynamic sporting dimension to island life, creating meaningful opportunities for guests to learn directly from champions while enjoying a highly personalised experience in the Maldives.

Game. Set. Inspire. with Elena Rybakina | 17–23 November 2026

Wimbledon Champion and Australian Open Champion 2026 Elena Rybakina invites guests to experience the game through the eyes of a Grand Slam champion.

Known for her powerful serve, precision and calm determination, Elena made history as Kazakhstan’s first Grand Slam singles champion when she claimed the Wimbledon title in 2022, before adding the 2026 Australian Open title to her achievements. She also reached a career-high ranking of World No. 2 in women’s singles.

Through two exclusive workshops for adults and younger players, guests will have the rare opportunity to train alongside one of the world’s leading athletes while discovering the discipline, focus and joy behind championship-level tennis.

Play Like a Champion with Ana Ivanović | 22–27 December 2026

Former World No. 1 Ana Ivanović brings her passion for tennis and Grand Slam-winning legacy to JOALI Maldives for an exclusive festive-season residency. Celebrated for her powerful forehand, competitive spirit and elegant style of play, Ana captured the 2008 French Open title before becoming World No. 1 in women’s singles and earning global acclaim as a modern tennis icon.

Guests will be invited to share the court with Ana across two exclusive workshops. The 60-minute Tennis Clinic for adults, ages 16 and above, focuses on the techniques, strategy and discipline that shaped her career. The 60-minute Tennis Camp for children ages 4 to 15 offers a lively introduction to tennis, helping young players develop skills, build confidence and find their rhythm on court.

From November through the festive season, the two residencies bring together championship-level sport and JOALI Maldives’ distinctive approach to meaningful guest experiences. With programming created for adults and families alike, guests can discover tennis in an intimate island setting while learning directly from two Grand Slam champions.

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Football legends Andy Cole and Stuart Pearce head back to Niva Kuramathi Maldives

Published

2 days ago

August 17, 2026

m@ldives

Back by popular demand, Niva Kuramathi Maldives has announced the return of Campioni Soccer Academy for 2027. Taking place over Easter 2027 and Summer 2027, the football academy for aspiring young players aged 4-16, is a celebration of sport, sunshine and island spirit.

Week One, Easter 2027: 29th March to 3rd April 2027 | Led by Andy Cole and UEFA ‘A’ Licensed coach Adrian Whitbread

Week Two, Summer 2027: 26th – 31st July 2027 | Led by Stuart Pearce MBE and UEFA ‘A’ Licensed coach Adrian Whitbread

Experience the ultimate family getaway with Campioni and Niva Kuramathi; set against the turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Campioni transforms Niva Kuramathi’s pristine football pitch into a training ground led by former Premier League players and UEFA coaches. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime to be coached for two-hours, daily, whilst on holiday, by legendary players who have played and managed teams at the highest level.

Welcoming one of England’s best known and most loved football icons Stuart Pearce MBE, and one of the Premier League’s all-time great strikers Andy Cole, each joined by UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach Adrian Whitbread, this year Campioni promises two unforgettable weeks of daily training sessions in paradise.

Andy Cole is best known for his hugely successful spell at Manchester United, where he won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Champions League as part of the historic 1999 Treble-winning side. Cole brings world-class experience and inspiration to Campioni Soccer Academy; renowned for his sharp finishing, professionalism, and winning mentality. His involvement gives young players a unique chance to learn from a true legend and understand what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

One of England’s most respected football legends, Stuart Pearce plays an inspiring role at Campioni Soccer Academy, where he helps train and mentor young players. Known for his passion, leadership, and determination both on and off the pitch, Pearce brings a wealth of experience from his illustrious career, which includes captaining England and managing at the highest levels of the game. His involvement at Campioni provides aspiring footballers with a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s greats, gaining valuable insights into teamwork, discipline, and what it truly takes to succeed in football.

The week-long Academy begins with an oceanfront welcome reception where families meet the legends, collect their bespoke training kits, and toast to the week ahead.

From Monday to Saturday, children take part in daily interactive training sessions under the expert guidance of the pros, focusing on technical skills, game awareness and overall development using the FA’s 4 Corner Model. Learning the importance of teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship, this is a chance for boys and girls of all abilities to learn from the best in the game while creating unforgettable memories.

Parents can unwind across the resort knowing their children are safe, active, and inspired – or lace up their own boots for the Parents’ Game midweek – a crowd favourite that turns the pitch into a playground for all ages.

“I can’t wait to return to Niva Kuramathi for the Campioni Soccer Academy in Summer 2027. Last year’s academy was such a memorable experience, and I’m excited to meet another group of families and young players. What makes Campioni so special is seeing the confidence and potential that comes through in every session. It’s about more than football, it’s about encouraging young people to believe in themselves, aim high and enjoy the journey along the way,” said Stuart Pearce MBE.

“Campioni Soccer Academy is always an incredible experience, and I’m really looking forward to joining the team at Niva Kuramathi next Easter. It’s always rewarding to see families come together and watch kids learn, grow and have fun through football, while also enjoying everything a destination like the Maldives has to offer. I’m sure this will be a truly memorable academy, and I can’t wait to see the young players embrace the experience, make new friends and create memories that will stay with them long after they leave the island,” said Andy Cole.

The soccer academy reaches beyond the resort. Local Maldivian football clubs will once again join, with young players receiving special coaching sessions led by Cole and Pearce – inspiration and skills passed to the next generation of island footballers.

The Campioni Football Academy places children on the pitch each morning – skills sharpening, friendships forming, the ocean a constant presence at the edge of play. When the final whistle sounds at the end of each daily session, an entire island opens up.

Bageecha Kids Club – complimentary for children aged three to twelve – offers botanic walks, marine encounters, creative workshops, open-air movies, and beach barbecues unfold across a two-week rotating programme designed so that curiosity never runs dry. Open daily from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm, with babysitting available until midnight with 24 hours’ notice.

The Eco Centre invites families to learn about the reef, meet resident marine experts, and take part in coral planting. At the Hydroponics Garden, young explorers discover how the island grows its own produce. Beneath the surface, the house reef reveals grey reef sharks, turtles, and manta rays – reached by guided snorkelling safaris or semi-submarine. On the water, windsurfing and catamaran sailing await, with private lessons available for children aged twelve and above.

While children play, LIME Wellbeing draws on ancient Maldivian ritual and natural oils. Offering a quiet return to balance, the lagoon close and still. As the day eases into evening, the island’s rhythm shifts. Live music and DJ sets create a soundscape across the island, from mellow sunset sessions to late night, upbeat tempos. Parents slip away for cocktails at Laguna Bar or Champagne at the Loft. Dinner unfolds across nine à la carte restaurants: The Reef, La Belle Vie, the theatre of Kobe, Tandoor Mahal, and Siam Garden.

Eleven villa categories open onto sand or sea – from palm-fringed Beach Bungalows to the expansive Two-Bedroom Beach House, a duplex for up to six adults or four adults and two children, with separate living spaces and lagoon views that stretch to the horizon. All Campioni academy participants are required to stay at Niva Kuramathi Maldives for the duration of the programme.

For further information and reservations, please call +960 666 01 50 or email: reservations@nivakuramathi.com. For more inspiration visit, www.nivakuramathi.com.