Kabaddi Champions League Prepares for Exciting Second Season

The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) is preparing for its second season, building on the success of its inaugural edition. With an expanded franchise structure and increased player purse, KCL aims to enhance its visibility and attract a larger audience. Key figures from sports and government are supporting the league's mission to create a sustainable professional ecosystem for kabaddi. As the league sets ambitious viewership goals, it seeks to inspire young athletes and strengthen India's sporting culture. Discover how KCL plans to turn its initial momentum into a lasting impact on the kabaddi landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 1, 2026, 11:29 IST

Kabaddi Champions League Gears Up for Season Two

The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) is set to launch its second season after a successful debut in India's franchise-based kabaddi scene. With a focus on expanding its reach, the league aims to enhance its recognition across the nation, supported by notable figures from sports, government, and kabaddi administration.

Government and Sporting Support

Haryana's Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam, along with Olympic medallist wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, professional boxer Neeraj Goyat, and Kuldeep Dalal, Chairman of the Amateur Kabaddi Association of Haryana, are key supporters of KCL. Their involvement underscores the league's commitment to fostering government backing, sporting excellence, and institutional leadership.

Gautam, who attended the inaugural season in Sonipat, praised KCL for its role in promoting kabaddi while maintaining grassroots connections. He emphasized the need for structured competitive opportunities for young athletes, stating, 'Kabaddi is in the DNA of Haryana.' His remarks highlight the league's contribution to providing a professional platform for emerging players.

Inaugural Season Review

The first season of KCL took place at the Sports University of Haryana in Rai, Sonipat, from January 25 to February 7, 2026. Featuring eight franchises and a total player purse of Rs 4 crore, the Rohtak Royals claimed victory against the Bhiwani Bulls in a thrilling final, winning 32-30.

KCL has also contributed to Sonipat's sporting identity, traditionally known for wrestling, by introducing a professionally organized kabaddi competition. The inaugural season reportedly attracted 614.3 million viewers globally across television and OTT platforms, according to data shared by the organizers.

Expansion and Future Outlook

For its second season, KCL has expanded from eight to ten franchises, adding Jhajjar Jaguars and Kurukshetra Knights. The player purse has increased to Rs 5 crore, a 25% rise from the previous season. The auction held on October 17, 2026, saw over 300 players vying for spots on the ten teams, with Ayan Lochab becoming the most expensive player at Rs 17.4 lakh.

KCL aims to surpass 1,000 million viewers in its second season, building on its inaugural success. The absence of the Pro Kabaddi League in 2026 presents an opportunity for KCL to capture the kabaddi audience and enhance its broadcast presence.

Beyond viewership, KCL's long-term goal is to establish a sustainable professional ecosystem for kabaddi, allowing talented players to gain exposure and build careers. The involvement of government officials, Olympic athletes, and kabaddi administrators highlights the collaborative effort needed to develop a professional sporting competition.

Conclusion

With its transition from eight franchises and a Rs 4 crore player purse to ten teams and Rs 5 crore in Season 2, KCL is poised for growth. As the league prepares for its next chapter, it remains focused on enhancing the professional structure of kabaddi, creating opportunities for athletes, and expanding the sport's audience. The challenge ahead for KCL is to transform the momentum from its inaugural season into a lasting sporting movement.