The sporting extravaganza in India has been on the rise for almost a few decades now. Be it soccer, volleyball, or cricket. This also opens major possibilities for international investors to look at the growing Indian market. Recently, two of the exemplary athletes from the NFL have stepped into the Indian sports division. They become minority stakeholders of an IPL franchise.

As of now, the IPL fever is all on fire. Indians love the thrill of cricket. The sport has been one of the most popular games to play. A stadium doesn’t matter as this is a sport that can be played on the streets as well. For IPL, an international endorsement is something worth talking about. And yet at the same time, it is not a first for the league.

American athletes find their way to India

The Rajasthan Royals have appointed NFL players Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum to the board of the franchise as minority investors. Unsurprisingly, RR is one of the most popular franchises in the Indian Premier League. And also one that has known to be gritty and grounded in their approach.

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Fitzgerald is a former wide receiver, and Kelvin Beachum is an offensive tackle in the NFL. Moreover, both athletes have competed for the Arizona Cardinals and were important figures in the NFL. Larry Fitzgerald also talks about his recent stake in the IPL franchise via Press Release.

He mentions, “I love the idea of building a professional franchise with a clear social purpose and look forward to working with this team to challenge the realm of possibility by expanding to new horizons as a franchise. India has a passionate sports culture and I’m excited to invest in one of the most sought-after teams in the country.”

The Indian NFL Connection

The investment of NFL athletes in an Indian franchise looks to be a very intriguing aspect. IPL stands among the most valuable sporting franchise, behind the NFL and NBA. Furthermore, as far as the media rights and advertisement attracts the audience, the IPL is a perfect goldmine for investors in the upcoming future.

NFL players have been increasingly taking more roles elsewhere. They are also establishing a brand for themselves through media, branding and entrepreneurship. It is a welcome change as the average time NFL players get to play is very less. A safe and eventful second innings goes a long way.

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