Rajasthan Royals Lines Up ‘Stunning Offer’ for Gautam Gambhir’s CEO Post: Report

February 17, 2026: The 2008 IPL champions, Rajasthan Royals (RR), are set to go through a major ownership change, and the new management is reportedly keen to bring India head coach Gautam Gambhir on board in a significant role. According to a report in Dainik Jagran, one of the three new investors has offered Gambhir a 2–3 per cent minority stake in the franchise. In addition, the proposal includes roles as CEO and mentor, giving him a strong influence both on and off the field.

Gambhir has an impressive track record in the IPL. He played a key role in leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to three IPL titles — twice as captain and once as mentor. During his two-season mentorship with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the team qualified for the playoffs in both seasons. Because of these achievements, the RR’s new management considers Gambhir the ideal candidate to guide the franchise and strengthen its performance in future tournaments.

The offer highlights Gambhir’s growing reputation as one of the most successful cricket leaders in the IPL. With experience as a player, captain, and mentor, he is seen as someone who can build a winning team culture while also helping with business decisions related to the franchise.

🚨 RAJASTHAN ROYALS WILL HAVE NEW OWNERS IN IPL 🚨

- The new management of RR wants Gautam Gambhir to be their partner, Mentor and CEO. [Abhishek Tripathi]

Gambhir's tenure ends in 2027 World Cup, as long as he remains with the Indian team, it's impossible for him to accept… pic.twitter.com/bANgGlrK0h

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 17, 2026

Conflict of Interest and Gambhir’s Focus on Team India

Despite the attractive offer from Rajasthan Royals, Gambhir currently serves as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. His contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup. As per the Supreme Court ruling based on the Lodha Committee recommendations, no individual can hold a position with the Indian national team while simultaneously being associated with an IPL franchise. This is considered a conflict of interest. Therefore, if Gambhir decides to accept RR’s proposal, he would have to step down from his role as India’s head coach.

At present, Gambhir is fully focused on Team India. He is leading the side in the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup, where India has already secured a place in the Super 8 stage. He is also expected to lead India in the 2027 ODI World Cup. If his tenure is extended, he may guide the team at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where T20 cricket will be included for the first time. Winning a medal at the Olympics would be a historic moment for Indian cricket.

Rajasthan Royals are currently mainly owned by Manoj Badale through Emerging Media, holding a majority stake. Other investors include RedBird Capital Partners and Lachlan Murdoch. With the majority shareholders reportedly selling their stakes, the franchise may soon have new owners at the helm. The fresh management sees Gambhir as someone who can add value to both the cricket and business sides of the team.

While the offer is attractive and gives Gambhir a chance to take a top leadership role in the IPL, it is highly unlikely that he will leave his current responsibilities with Team India at this stage. His priority remains helping the national team defend its T20 World Cup title and prepare for future international tournaments.