Lalit Modi Credits ‘Good Friend’ Vijay Mallya for Backing IPL from the Start: ‘You May Have Your Bias’
In a rare and candid statement, Lalit Modi, the controversial architect and former commissioner of the Indian Premier League (IPL), took to social media and interviews to acknowledge the contribution of another polarizing figure — Vijay Mallya. In his words, Mallya, often remembered for the Kingfisher Airlines debacle and the legal battles that followed, was “one of the first believers” in the vision of IPL and provided crucial support during its formative days.
At a time when IPL has grown into a multi-billion-dollar cricketing juggernaut, it’s easy to forget the resistance and skepticism it once faced. Lalit Modi’s revelations serve as a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour of modern-day franchise cricket, were a handful of people who risked capital, reputation, and even careers to get it off the ground. Among them, according to Modi, was Vijay Mallya.
A Rare Acknowledgment
In an emotionally charged message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Lalit Modi wrote:
“You may have your bias, but history must recognize those who believed in the IPL when nobody else did. Vijay Mallya was one of them. A true friend, and a believer in the dream.”
This statement came alongside an old photograph of Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya during the early seasons of the IPL, possibly during a launch event of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the franchise owned by Mallya’s United Spirits at the time.
Modi, who has faced exile from India due to allegations of financial misconduct and corruption related to the IPL, has made very few public appearances over the years. His recent attempt to reframe certain chapters of IPL’s history has sparked renewed discussions online, especially concerning the unsung contributors to its rise.
Mallya’s Role in IPL’s Beginnings
Back in 2008, when IPL was still a risky proposition, Vijay Mallya made headlines for splurging a massive USD $111.6 million to acquire the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. Critics at the time called it an extravagant, ego-driven investment — a flamboyant businessman bringing his lavish persona into cricket. However, Modi sees it differently.
“Vijay didn’t just bring in money, he brought in belief,” Modi said during a short interview on a podcast. “He understood the entertainment value of the IPL. He knew the world was ready for cricket packaged like the NBA.”
Mallya not only invested in the team but also played a key role in branding. From roping in Bollywood celebrities to revamping team merchandise and fan engagement strategies, his involvement lent IPL a corporate and entertainment polish that helped it capture public imagination.
A Friendship Beyond Cricket
Modi’s reference to Mallya as a “good friend” also points to a shared history far beyond cricket. Both men came from influential backgrounds, both were known for their flamboyant styles, and both eventually became fugitives of Indian law enforcement due to their respective financial controversies.
While many of their former associates distanced themselves as legal troubles mounted, Lalit Modi’s public show of gratitude is noteworthy.
“Not many have stood by me. Mallya, despite everything, never turned his back. He’s a flawed man, like all of us, but he believed in something when few did,” said Modi.
This emotional framing not only seeks to humanize Mallya but also hints at Modi’s ongoing battle for redemption — to be remembered not just for his fall from grace, but for the vision that changed global cricket.
Public Reaction and Polarized Opinions
The public response to Modi’s message was predictably divided. Many fans and former cricketers acknowledged Mallya’s early role in shaping RCB and IPL. Others criticized the timing and tone, accusing Modi of attempting to rewrite history by glorifying controversial figures.
One user wrote on X:
“This sounds like glorifying financial crime under the banner of ‘vision.’ Mallya owes banks, employees, and the nation. Supporting IPL doesn’t erase that.”
Others were more sympathetic:
“Whether you like them or not, both Mallya and Modi contributed to the IPL we love today. You can separate that from their mistakes.”
IPL: Then and Now
To appreciate the magnitude of what Lalit Modi and early investors like Mallya achieved, one needs to rewind to 2008. The cricketing world was skeptical about a domestic franchise model based on entertainment, cheerleaders, and auctions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was divided. Sponsors were hesitant.
Yet, the IPL’s first season turned out to be a blockbuster success. Franchises became household names, stadiums filled up, and broadcasting deals hit record numbers.
Fast forward to 2025 — the IPL is now a cornerstone of global cricket, with a brand valuation exceeding $15 billion. Players from over 10 countries participate, and its influence has reshaped cricket calendars worldwide.
Amid all this success, the contributions of early risk-takers like Vijay Mallya have largely been forgotten — buried under scandal and lawsuits. Modi’s message is perhaps an attempt to restore balance to that narrative.
Redemption or Deflection?
Critics argue that Modi’s recent public statements — including the one on Mallya — are part of a larger campaign to regain legitimacy and reshape public opinion. Over the years, Modi has tried various legal avenues to return to India and clear his name, though none have succeeded so far.
This statement about Mallya could be interpreted as another step in that strategy. By aligning himself with Mallya’s redemption arc, Modi could be testing waters for his own.
“They’re both painted as villains now, but history is complex,” said a sports journalist commenting on the issue. “Maybe Modi wants us to see shades of grey, not just black and white.”
What Does Mallya Say?
Interestingly, Vijay Mallya himself has yet to publicly respond to Modi’s message. Now based in the UK, Mallya remains embroiled in legal battles over extradition and financial recovery by Indian banks.
However, close sources suggest he was “touched” by the mention, particularly because very few from his past have spoken about his business contributions without bringing up the failures.
“If nothing else, it was a gentlemanly gesture,” a former RCB executive said. “Acknowledging Mallya’s early risk is fair, even if you hold him accountable for what came after.”
Final Thoughts
In the larger scheme of IPL history, Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya are complex characters — visionaries to some, villains to others. While both are currently seen as controversial figures, their roles in the league’s genesis cannot be denied.
Lalit Modi’s rare and heartfelt message may not change public perception overnight, but it does open the door to a more nuanced conversation. Can you separate the creator from the controversy? Can vision and ethics coexist in the same storyline?
For now, Modi’s tribute to Mallya stands as a small reminder that behind even the most successful ventures lie stories of risk, ambition, friendship, and yes — even fallibility.
