New Delhi: If given a chance, former cricket administrator Lalit Modi would rebuild Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. The venue has hosted many high-profile matches, including the T20 World Cup 2026 final and IPL 2026 final.
According to the former IPL chairman, the stadium could transform into one of the world’s premier sporting venues if it were redesigned with a fan-first approach. From modern escalators to restaurants, Modi would make complete use of the technologies available.
“If I were there today, I would demolish it and rebuild it completely. Modern escalators, modern kitchens, modern restaurants. Make it a 365-day destination,” the businessman said, during his recent appearance on the Humans of Bombay podcast.
Modi shared his vision for a stadium that goes far beyond cricket, featuring shopping areas and entertainment zones, along with improved cooling systems, premium hospitality areas and significantly better fan facilities.
“The technology exists. You can have five-star quality bathrooms, self-cleaning toilets and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Fans should be able to get in and out of the stadium in five minutes,” he added.
Modi also called out the state of stadium infrastructure in India, saying that many venues prioritise revenue generation over the overall fan experience.
“The match is three hours, but fans arrive much earlier. They spend four to five hours there, often with young children. You need hygienic facilities, quality food and a comfortable environment. That is what’s missing,” Modi said.
He further argued that stadiums need to evolve beyond being match-day venues. According to Modi, the future lies in transforming them into year-round entertainment hubs that remain active and engaging even when no sporting events are being held.
Lalit Modi has been living in London for the past 16 years, as he is a wanted person in India for several alleged financial crimes.
(Edited by Insha Jalil Waziri)