India's Sports Economy Is Moving Beyond Cricket
Cricket dominates, but football, kabaddi, badminton and grassroots sport are also gaining attention.
India's sports economy is still led by cricket, but the next stage of growth may be broader.
Football, kabaddi, badminton, athletics and grassroots leagues are all trying to build stronger audiences. The challenge is creating year-round engagement and commercially sustainable competition.
"India's story in 2026 is no longer about catching up — it's about defining what comes next."
The IPL provides lessons in local identity, star power and broadcast strategy. Other sports will need to build their own versions, not simply copy cricket.
Regional football leagues in particular are seeing improved attendance figures as clubs invest in fan experience and academy systems.
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