Lalit Modi Celebrates British Citizenship: A New Chapter in His Life

Lalit Modi's Journey to British Citizenship

London/New Delhi: Lalit Modi, the founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), recently shared on social media that he has officially become a British citizen after spending numerous years in the UK.

In a heartfelt post featuring photos from his citizenship ceremony held at a London Town Hall in September, Modi expressed his desire to publicly commemorate this significant personal achievement during his address at the Oxford Union.

Having departed India in May 2010 following a suspension by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) due to allegations of financial misconduct related to the IPL, Modi faced a non-bailable warrant issued by a special court in 2015 for failing to respond to summonses from the Enforcement Directorate regarding a money laundering investigation.

Earlier this July, an appellate tribunal overturned a penalty that had been imposed on him in a separate Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) case linked to the IPL's 2009 season in South Africa.

Modi has consistently rejected the label of 'fugitive,' asserting that he has not been convicted of any crime.

"I take pride in being a British citizen," he stated in his post on X. "On September 15, 2026, I celebrated my British citizenship surrounded by family and friends at a ceremony that will forever be cherished in my heart."

He further remarked, "The UK has been my home for many years, a nation I have grown to deeply admire for its people, institutions, traditions, and values."

Modi characterized his British citizenship as both a "privilege and a responsibility that I accept with pride, gratitude, and a true sense of belonging."

He added, "My life's journey has been influenced by various cultures and experiences, and I am eager to continue making positive contributions to the country I proudly call home."

In closing, he expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and everyone who has supported him throughout this journey, as well as to the Oxford Union for hosting such a memorable event. "A new chapter awaits, filled with much to anticipate," he concluded.

His announcement coincided with the 78th birthday of King Charles III, which falls on November 14. "And on His Majesty King Charles III's birthday, it is particularly special to share this moment. God Save the King!"