Hampshire chair Bransgrove leaves after 26 years as new owners take full control in 2026

Rod Bransgrove stepped down as Hampshire chairman in 2026 after 26 years when new owners completed their full takeover.

Long-serving leader departs Rod Bransgrove has stepped down from his position as Hampshire chairman after leading the club for 26 years. His departure follows the completion of a takeover by GMR Global, the joint owners of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League. Bransgrove first took charge in 2000, overseeing the club's relocation to the Utilita Bowl in the following year. During his time in charge, Hampshire won Division Two of the County Championship along with seven white-ball trophies. ## New leadership at the club Kiran Kumar Grandhi, chairman of GMR Sports, has taken over from Bransgrove as the new chairman of Hampshire. Bransgrove has been named honorary life president and will continue serving as a director on the board. The transition follows GMR's full acquisition of Hampshire, which was finalized in the year 2026 after an agreed phased purchase process. GMR initially gained a majority stake in September 2024 before completing the 100% takeover within two years. ## Historic overseas ownership milestone Hampshire became the first English county club to be owned by an overseas franchise when GMR's takeover was first approved in September 2024. The agreement included a phased acquisition plan, allowing GMR to assume immediate control with a majority stake. The process was designed to culminate in a full 100% ownership within two years, which has now been achieved. This marks a significant shift in the club's ownership structure and future direction.