By Centre Court Capital has made a significant announcement in the realm of sports and gaming with the launch of its maiden fund amounting to INR 350 crore. This venture aims to support innovative tech startups and push the boundaries within the sports and gaming ecosystem. Led by Mustafa Ghouse, former CEO of JSW Sports, along with Alok Samtaney, former investment director with TVS Capital and Sabre Partners, the fund sets its sights on empowering founders to redefine the landscape of sports and gaming.
According to an official release, Centre Court Capital is a SEBI-registered Category II AIF (Alternative Investment Fund) and is poised to launch an offshore feeder fund in GIFT City to attract capital from international investors. The fund has already garnered INR 200 crore in commitments from investors and top athletes, marking a strong start to its journey.
Mustafa Ghouse, Founder and General Partner of Centre Court Capital, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “We have seen a tremendous rise in both public and private investment in sports, which has more than quadrupled since 2020… We firmly believe in the potential of the space and are focused on backing exceptional founders who believe they are now ready to compete with the best in class globally.”
The fund’s primary focus will be on early-stage opportunities, with investments ranging from INR 8 crore to INR 24 crore. Additionally, it plans to allocate 40–50% of the fund for follow-on investments, demonstrating a commitment to long-term partnerships and growth. Moreover, the fund aims to bridge the gap between ideas and growth in the sports and gaming industry of India, recognizing the immense potential within this sector.
Furthermore, Centre Court Capital has already completed its first two investments in the sports tech space, showcasing its dedication to fostering innovation and driving impactful change within the industry.
In a bid to attract global investors, the fund is launching a feeder fund in GIFT City, providing opportunities for international partnerships and collaborations. This strategic move aligns with Centre Court Capital’s vision to lead India’s sports and gaming revolution on a global scale.
The fund has garnered support from prominent investors and entities, including the Sajjan Jindal Family Trust, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), PremjiInvest, USK Capital, GMR Sports, and SG Sports, among others. This collective backing underscores the widespread recognition of the potential growth and impact of sports and gaming startups in India.
In conclusion, Centre Court Capital’s maiden fund marks a significant milestone in the journey towards fostering innovation and driving growth within the sports and gaming ecosystem. With a strong leadership team, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, the fund is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry landscape.
