Expanding Horizons: U Mumba Ventures into Chess and Beyond

U Mumba, a franchise known for its dominance in the Pro Kabaddi League, has made a strategic move to expand its sports portfolio by venturing into the world of chess. This decision comes at a time when chess is experiencing a surge in popularity both in India and globally, highlighted by recent achievements such as Gukesh’s success at The Candidates. The upGrad Mumba Masters, as the chess team is named, boasts top Indian chess icons like Koneru Humpy, Harika Dronavalli, and Vidit Gujrati, showcasing U Mumba’s commitment to fostering intellectual sports alongside physical ones.

In a recent interview with Adgully, Suhail Chandhok, CEO of U Mumba, discussed the franchise’s growth trajectory and the broader landscape of sports development in India. From the evolution of kabaddi on the international stage to the impact of initiatives like Khelo India in promoting youth participation in sports, Chandhok shed light on the various facets of U Mumba’s strategic planning and objectives.

With the global chess market projected to reach $2,706.68 million by 2028, U Mumba’s foray into chess presents a lucrative opportunity for brands to maximize their partnership with the franchise. By leveraging U Mumba’s strong presence in Maharashtra, sponsors can gain significant visibility and brand recall, tapping into a diverse audience across Tier 2 and 3 towns.

Looking ahead, U Mumba aims to continue nurturing young talent and building a competitive team that embodies the ethos of the franchise. While exploring additional sporting opportunities, U Mumba remains focused on sustainable growth and maximizing ROI across various sports leagues. With a packed calendar of events including UTT, Global Chess League, and Pro Kabaddi League, U Mumba is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of sports.