GMR Sports has elevated Ankit Baldi as its Chief Executive Officer, marking a new leadership role for the sports executive within the GMR Group. Baldi announced the development on LinkedIn, saying he has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of GMR Sports and expressing his gratitude to the group’s leadership for the trust and confidence placed in him.
Baldi joined GMR Sports in June 2025 as Head – Business Development, Strategy and Governance. In that role, he was responsible for business development, strategy and governance before taking on the broader CEO mandate. His elevation has been confirmed by Exchange4media and SportzPower.
He brings more than 17 years of experience across sports, media and infrastructure, with a professional background spanning franchise management, sports operations, business strategy and large-scale organisational initiatives.
Before joining GMR Sports, Baldi spent around six years with Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. He stepped down from the COO position in May 2025 before moving to GMR Sports. His tenure with Chennai Super Kings added to his experience in managing operations within one of India’s leading cricket franchises.
Baldi has also held leadership responsibilities connected with Joburg Super Kings and Texas Super Kings, giving him experience across international franchise operations. His career has included work across sports, media and infrastructure, with responsibilities involving strategy, operations and business development.
In his LinkedIn announcement, Baldi described sports as a defining part of his professional journey and said the new position was both a privilege and a responsibility. He also highlighted GMR Sports’ portfolio and the opportunity to build a global sports business from India.
As CEO, Baldi said he looks forward to working with the company’s teams, partners, athletes and other stakeholders to build sporting properties and create long-term value. His stated focus will include strengthening GMR Sports and taking its sports portfolio forward.
GMR Sports has built a portfolio spanning cricket and other sporting properties in India and international markets. Its portfolio includes Delhi Capitals, UP Yoddhas, Telugu Yoddhas, Dubai Capitals, Pretoria Capitals and Seattle Orcas, among others. The company has also expanded its international presence through properties including Hampshire County Cricket Club and Southern Brave.
Baldi’s elevation to CEO brings his experience in sports operations, franchise management, strategy and business development into a broader leadership role as GMR Sports continues to expand its presence across India and global sports markets.
