'A proud moment. A new chapter': Lalit Modi announces British Citizenship at Oxford Union

Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has publicly announced that he became a British citizen on September 15, 2026. He revealed the milestone while addressing the Oxford Union on November 14, describing it as “a proud moment” and “a new chapter” in his life.

Modi, who has lived in the United Kingdom for several years, said the citizenship ceremony was attended by family and close friends. In a post on X following his Oxford Union address, he wrote that the occasion would “always hold a special place” in his heart.

“I am proud to be a British citizen,” Modi said, adding that he had celebrated the milestone on September 15 “surrounded by family and friends".

He described British citizenship as both “a privilege and a responsibility", saying he embraced it “with pride, gratitude and a genuine sense of belonging".

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UK is my home, says Modi

Modi said the United Kingdom had been his home for many years and that he had come to admire its people, institutions, traditions and values.

“The United Kingdom has been my home for many years. It is a country I have come to admire and appreciate deeply,” he wrote.

Reflecting on his international journey, Modi said his life had been shaped by “different cultures and experiences" and that he looked forward to continuing to contribute positively to the country he now calls home.

Announcement at Oxford Union

The former IPL chairman made the announcement during an address at the Oxford Union, the University of Oxford’s celebrated debating society. The Union’s event listing had scheduled Modi to speak on November 14 from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

Modi also thanked his family, friends and the Oxford Union for providing “such a memorable occasion” to share the news. He ended his post with the words "A new chapter, with much to look forward to,” alongside the hashtag #GodSaveTheKing.

A major personal milestone

The announcement marks a significant personal development for Modi, who left India nearly 16 years ago and has largely been based in the UK. The citizenship was confirmed as of September 15, while Modi chose to make it public during his Oxford Union appearance.

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Modi is best known for founding the IPL and pioneering its franchise-based model, which transformed cricket into a major global commercial property. The Oxford Union described him as the founder of a league now valued at over $20 billion.

His announcement drew wide attention in India and the UK, with his statement that the UK is now his home.