Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan is reportedly on the verge of consolidating his control over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with plans to increase his ownership stake to approximately 90%. The move involves the acquisition of a substantial 35% share from the Mehta Group, led by businessman Jay Mehta. If finalized, the transaction—estimated to be valued at roughly ₹4,000 crore—would effectively give Khan absolute ownership of the three-time IPL champions ahead of the 2026 season. Who Will Replace Mustafizur Rahman in KKR After Shah Rukh Khan-Owned Franchise Release Star Bangladesh Pacer Ahead of IPL 2026? Here's List.

The development follows a period of speculation regarding potential new investors in the franchise. However, sources close to the team have confirmed that Khan has opted to buy out his long-time partner instead, cementing his position as the primary decision-maker for the team he has fronted since the league's inception in 2008.

Consolidation of Control

Currently, the ownership of Knight Riders Sports Private Ltd is split between Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, which holds a 55% majority, and the Mehta Group, which holds the remaining 45%. Under the proposed agreement, Jay Mehta is expected to sell the bulk of his shares while retaining a small, symbolic stake in the franchise.

Actress Juhi Chawla, who is married to Jay Mehta and has been a visible face of the team's leadership alongside Khan, will reportedly retain her individual shares. However, her remaining percentage will be minor compared to Khan’s projected 90% holding.

Financial Milestone for Shah Rukh Khan

The timing of the takeover aligns with a record-breaking financial year for the 60-year-old actor. Despite not having a major film release in 2025, Khan’s net worth reportedly catapulted to $1.40 billion, fueled by lucrative brand endorsements and the soaring valuation of his existing investments.

In October 2025, the Hurun India Rich List recognized him as the first Indian actor to enter the billionaire club. This surge in liquidity has reportedly allowed Khan to reinvest in KKR at a time when IPL franchise valuations have reached an all-time high, with the team now estimated to be worth between ₹13,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore.

Strategic Shifts Ahead of IPL 2026

This ownership shift comes amid a broader transformation within the KKR camp. Following their 2024 championship victory, the team has been active in the recent IPL 2026 auction, securing high-profile players like Cameron Green for ₹25.2 crore and Matheesha Pathirana for ₹18 crore.

The franchise also recently revamped its coaching staff, appointing former Australian star Shane Watson as assistant coach and Dwayne Bravo as a mentor. Analysts suggest that Khan’s move to consolidate ownership will provide the franchise with long-term administrative stability and a unified vision as they attempt to defend their status as one of the league's most successful teams. Rinku Singh's Childhood Coach Masood Uz Zafar Amini, Reacts On BCCI's Directive For KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman; Says 'Hindu or Muslim Comes Later'.

Background: A 17-Year Partnership

The partnership between Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, and Jay Mehta began in 2008 when they acquired the Kolkata franchise for $75.09 million (approximately ₹298 crore at the time). Over the last 17 years, the Knight Riders brand has expanded globally, establishing sister franchises in the Caribbean Premier League, UAE’s ILT20, and the United States’ Major League Cricket. The Mehta Group has remained a steady partner throughout this expansion, making their decision to divest a landmark moment in the team's history.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 05, 2026 07:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).