Barbados Tridents return as Government and Royals Sports Group strike landmark deal

The Barbados Tridents brand returns to the Caribbean Premier League under a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership ahead of the island’s 60th Independence celebrations.

The “Barbados Royals” era has come to an end, making way for the return of the Barbados Tridents.

In a groundbreaking announcement from Bridgetown, the Government of Barbados and the Royals Sports Group (RSG) have unveiled the “One Barbados” initiative, a three-year strategic partnership in which the state is set to become a minority co-investor in the franchise.

The rebrand marks a return to the island’s traditional national colours. After five seasons under the Royals moniker, the team will debut a redesigned matchday jersey that leans into Barbadian identity, while maintaining its ties to the RSG’s “Pink Promise” charitable initiatives through dedicated charity fixtures.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley hailed the move as a pivotal moment for the nation as it approaches its 60th year of Independence. “The return to the Barbados Tridents reflects our confidence, our pride, and our ambition as a nation,” Mottley said. “Cricket has long been a core pillar of our national identity. This innovative public-private partnership presents a new model for collaboration between government and professional sport.”

While the Government of Barbados enters as a minority stakeholder, the majority ownership and day-to-day operations remain under the Royals Sports Group. For RSG, the move represents a deepened commitment to the region rather than an exit.

Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of RSG, described the “One Barbados” partnership as a first for elite franchise cricket. “It reflects our long-term belief in Barbados—not only as a cricketing powerhouse but as a nation with deep global relevance,” Badale stated.

“Relaunching as the Barbados Tridents in national colours is a powerful statement of intent. We have one clear ambition: sustained success, bringing both the men’s and women’s CPL titles home to the island.”

The partnership is designed to transform the franchise into a year-round national asset, moving beyond the CPL season to drive impact in tourism, investment, and local sports development. (Press Release)