Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor, who will be owning the Mumbai franchise in the inaugural Indian Super League (ISL), said he was looking to translating his passion for the sport into development activity.
Ranbir has tied up with investment banker Bimal Parekh to co-own the Mumbai franchise of the eight-city league that will be played during September-November.
"It is a moment of great pride for me to be a part of the Indian Super League and to represent the vibrant city of Mumbai. Football has never been far away from my daily life since childhood, and now as a partner in the Indian Super League, I am looking forward to translate my passion into contributing to the growth of the sport," said Ranbir.
Ranbir hoped the grassroots programme developed by ISL promoters IMG-Reliance for the franchise owners will benefit the game.
"I firmly believe in the grassroots and community development program designed by the league organisers IMG Reliance, to popularise the game and that's one thing which excited me to be part of this dream," he said.
