Sports
Gujarat Titans unveil vision for IPL 2026 season
Franchise leaders emphasise culture, fan connection and never-give-up spirit.
MUMBAI: Gujarat Titans just raised the bar for IPL 2026 because when a young franchise already has two finals and one trophy in four seasons, the only way left is to aim even higher. At the grand Season Launch event ‘Shubharambh 2026’ in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Titans outlined their ambitions for the upcoming Tata IPL 2026 season, with a strong focus on deepening their identity, strengthening team culture and putting fans at the heart of everything they do.
Gujarat Titans managing director and director Torrent Group Jinal Mehta reflected on the franchise’s rapid rise, “We are a young franchise, but over the last four years, we’ve built a strong legacy. We’ve reached the finals twice and won the IPL in our inaugural season. We see ourselves as a franchise that believes there is much more beyond the game itself. Fans are at the centre of everything we do.”
Gujarat Titans director, and Torrent Group director Shaan Mehta highlighted the importance of culture: “Culture is at the centre of everything we do, regardless of on-field results. If you don’t function as a unit, you cannot be part of a strong team. It has always been about working towards the team’s betterment and not getting carried away by past results.”
On the responsibility of representing an entire state, Jinal Mehta added, “It’s a significant responsibility, and we see ourselves as custodians of it on behalf of our fans. Sport, especially cricket, is like a religion in our country. While winning matters, how we conduct ourselves as a franchise matters just as much.”
Shaan Mehta reinforced the emotional bond with supporters, “GT is an emotion, and the fans are at the centre of that. Without them, success would not hold the same meaning. That’s something we want to keep strengthening as we continue this journey.”
Looking ahead to the new season, Shaan Mehta promised fans, “At the very least, fans can expect a never-give-up attitude, and they will certainly be entertained throughout the season. The team will play with intensity, and there will be plenty to look forward to as the season unfolds.”
In just four seasons, Gujarat Titans have moved from new entrant to one of the IPL’s most compelling stories. With a clear focus on culture, fan connection and consistent performance, the franchise is ready to write the next chapter of its rapidly growing legacy.
When a team already plays with the heart of a champion and the discipline of a contender, adding “never-give-up” as the official season vibe is less a promise and more a warning to the rest of the league, Gujarat Titans are coming, and they’re bringing their fans with them.
Sports
Sony Pictures Networks India acquires broadcast rights for Indian Football League
SPNI strengthens its football portfolio with domestic league addition for 2025-26 season.
MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India has just kicked the ball into its own net in the best possible way. The broadcaster has secured the television and digital rights for the Indian Football League (formerly the I-League) for the 2025-26 season, further cementing its position as the go-to destination for football in India. SPNI’s football portfolio now boasts an impressive lineup, including the Indian Super League, Indian Football League, Durand Cup, UEFA EURO 2028, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Nations League, Bundesliga, FA Cup, and more.
Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer and business head and sports and international Rajesh Kaul said, “The Indian Football League is an important pillar of the country’s football structure, with deep regional followings and a vital role in shaping the next generation of talent. With this acquisition, we are further strengthening our football offering and building a more complete ecosystem for fans in India.”
AIFF deputy secretary general M. Satyanarayan welcomed the partnership, “We are happy to have Sony Sports Network as the broadcast partners for the league. Last season, the title race went right down to the final day, and we hope this year it will be just as exciting. The Indian Football League has its own distinct charm, and we are confident it will live up to expectations once again.”
The addition of the IFL reinforces SPNI’s long-term commitment to growing football fandom in India by bringing fans closer to the sport at every level from grassroots domestic action to the biggest international stages.
In a country where cricket often dominates the spotlight, Sony is steadily building a full-pitch football ecosystem. With the IFL now on board, fans can look forward to a richer, more rounded football calendar, one that promises both local passion and global glamour. The beautiful game just got even more beautiful on Indian screens.
