- Gopal Vittal from Bharti Airtel is the new GSMA Chairman until 2026.
- He’s the second Indian in this role, following Sunil Bharti Mittal.
- Vittal will guide the mobile industry’s big plans worldwide.
Bharti Airtel’s Gopal Vittal has been picked as the GSMA Chairman by the GSMA Board, a job he’ll hold until the end of 2026. Vittal, who runs Bharti Airtel as Vice Chairman and Managing Director, is only the second Indian to lead this group, after Airtel’s founder, Sunil Bharti Mittal. The GSMA, or Global System for Mobile Communications Association, brings together over 1,000 companies—like phone makers, software teams, and internet firms—to shape the future of mobile tech around the world.
Vittal’s excited about the role, saying, “I’m honored to lead the GSMA Board.” He pointed out that mobile tech added $6.5 trillion to the world economy in 2024 and is key to new ideas everywhere. As chairman, he’ll steer the GSMA’s plans, working with its team and board to keep pushing helpful changes. Vittal’s no stranger to this—he’s been the Deputy Chair for three years and even stepped in as Acting Chair earlier in 2025, so he’s ready to take charge.
Mats Granryd, the GSMA’s Director General, praised Vittal, saying he’s worked with him for years and knows he’s perfect for the job. Granryd thinks Vittal’s smarts and experience will help tackle big challenges and chances—like using AI and finishing 5G—to make new ways for mobile companies to grow. With Vittal leading, the GSMA Board will soon pick a new Deputy Chair to keep things moving smoothly.
