Abu Dhabi T10 Opens Global Invitation-to-Bid Process to Select Eight Founding Franchise Teams for 2026

Abu Dhabi T10 Launches Global Franchise Bidding Process

Abu Dhabi, July 7: Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH) has officially opened the Global Invitation-to-Bid (ITB) process for team and franchise ownership in the Abu Dhabi T10, marking a significant milestone in the tournament's evolution under its new governance structure.

The competitive bidding process, which opened on July 3 and will close on July 16, 2026, represents the next phase of the vision announced earlier this year after ADCSH, supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), assumed majority ownership and stewardship of the tournament.

Eight Founding Teams to Be Selected

The Invitation-to-Bid process will identify eight new franchise teams that will compete in the 2026 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10. Applicants will undergo a rigorous, independently managed evaluation process aimed at selecting partners capable of supporting the tournament's long-term international growth.

To ensure transparency and integrity, Deloitte has been appointed as the independent advisor to oversee the qualification process and evaluate all submissions.

Prospective franchise owners will be assessed on a wide range of criteria beyond financial capability, including:

• Governance standards
• Integrity and reputation
• Operational expertise
• Long-term commitment to the development of the Abu Dhabi T10

Focus on Transparency and Long-Term Growth

"The opening of the ITB process marks another important milestone in the next phase our Abu Dhabi T10 stewardship. We are looking for long-term strategic partners who share our ambition to build one of world cricket's most innovative and best-governed tournaments.

By appointing Deloitte to independently manage the evaluation process, we are reinforcing our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the very highest governance standards.

We are building a global product for the Abu Dhabi T10; one that our new team partners, the world of cricket and our Abu Dhabi stakeholders can be proud of. Through this tender process we are putting in place the foundations that will enable Abu Dhabi to continue attracting world-class players, global investors, and international audiences while delivering lasting sporting and economic value for our destination."

Two-Stage Evaluation Process

The ITB has been structured as a two-stage qualification exercise. Following the initial expression of interest period, shortlisted bidders will advance to the second stage, where they will gain access to a secure data room containing detailed commercial and operational information relating to the tournament before final evaluations are completed.

Successful franchise teams are expected to be confirmed during August, enabling preparations for player registrations, the player draft and the 2026 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10.

2026 Tournament Scheduled for November

The 2026 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament will be held at the iconic Zayed Cricket Stadium from November 7 to November 20.

The latest development follows the tournament's transition into a Government-owned and Government-managed competition, positioning the Abu Dhabi T10 as a long-term national sporting asset supported by strengthened governance, enhanced commercial opportunities and an ambitious global growth strategy.

Since its launch, the Abu Dhabi T10 has emerged as one of cricket's most innovative competitions, attracting leading international players, generating significant global broadcast value and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as the global home of T10 cricket.

About Abu Dhabi T10

The Abu Dhabi T10 is one of the world's leading short-format cricket tournaments. Under its new government-led ownership and governance model, the competition aims to strengthen transparency, attract global investment and expand its international footprint while contributing to Abu Dhabi's sporting and economic ambitions.

(Inputs from Press Release)