Shikhar Dhawan-backed Yashaa Global Capital secures permission to set up a global sports VC fund

Yashaa Global Capital, a sports-focused venture capital fund, has secured a Financial Services Permission (FSP) from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of ADGM, Abu Dhabi's international financial centre.

The move establishes Yashaa Global Capital in ADGM, paving the way for major investments in the fast-growing sports sector around the world.

A team of athletes and investors  

Yashaa Global Capital, formerly known as Da One Global Ventures, is spearheaded by General Partners Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Sirajuddin, Arif Padaria and Dr. Victor Tay. The firm was rebranded to reflect its global ambitions and focus on innovation and wealth generation.

The collaboration leverages their expertise and extensive networks in the sports ecosystem, aiming to provide unparalleled value to portfolio startups through mentorship, strategic partnerships, and growth opportunities.

Aiming to raise $75 million

Based in Abu Dhabi, the venture capital fund has a targeted $75 million corpus, including a $25 million greenshoe option. It plans to invest in areas such as sports technology, fitness and wellness, esports and gaming, media technology, and professional leagues and teams.

By connecting global investors with entrepreneurs, Yashaa Global Capital aims to foster fresh ideas, help expand businesses, and create a robust ecosystem for sports-focused ventures.

Leadership comments

Shikhar Dhawan, General Partner at Yashaa Global Capital, said Abu Dhabi's position as a financial hub and ADGM's stable regulations make it an ideal base for the fund.

"With ADGM’s support, we are confident in creating a platform that not only nurtures groundbreaking startups but also delivers meaningful value to our investors globally," Dhawan added.

Mohammed Sirajuddin, also a General Partner, shared his view that the sports industry is going through a transformative phase, becoming increasingly global and technology-driven. He said the fund hopes to fill a gap in Asia, where few venture capital firms specialize in sports-related projects.

"As a global fund with a strong Asia focus, we are dedicated to empowering visionary businesses shaping the future of sports and delivering exceptional value to founders, investors, and the broader ecosystem," Sirajuddin added.

South African cricket legend AB de Villiers expressed his excitement about the fund’s potential to reshape the business of sports, esports and gaming on a global level.

"As a sports ecosystem VC originating from the GCC region, it has the potential to reshape the business of sports, esports, and gaming investments worldwide. I look forward to supporting entrepreneurs on and off the field," AB de Villiers added.

ADGM’s role in supporting innovation  

ADGM is recognized for its supportive framework that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship in various sectors, including sports.

Arvind Ramamurthy, chief of market development at ADGM, welcomed Yashaa Global Capital's arrival in Abu Dhabi and said the establishment of a sports-focused fund reflects ADGM's commitment to helping creative and game-changing industries flourish.

"We are proud to support Yashaa Global Capital as they establish their presence in ADGM and launch a groundbreaking venture capital fund focused on the rapidly evolving sports sector," Ramamurthy added.