Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), one of the Indian Premier League’s most prominent franchises, has been sold for a staggering USD 1.78 billion (INR 16,660 crore) to a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group and the Times of India Group. The all-cash deal, announced by current owners United Spirits Limited (USL), marks one of the biggest franchise sales in global cricket.
The consortium also includes Bolt Ventures and Blackstone’s private equity arm, BXPE. Following the acquisition, both RCB’s men’s and women’s teams will be owned and operated by the new group, pending approvals from the BCCI and the Competition Commission of India.
The valuation underlines the explosive commercial growth of the IPL. Notably, the price exceeds the combined INR 12,715 crore that the BCCI fetched for the Lucknow and Ahmedabad franchises in 2021. RCB, founded in 2008, was originally purchased for USD 111.6 million by Vijay Mallya’s United Breweries Group, highlighting the franchise’s remarkable appreciation in value.
The sale follows Diageo’s strategic review of its stake in RCB, citing cricket as a non-core business. USL, controlled by Diageo in India, had indicated plans to complete the transaction before the end of March 2026.
The incoming consortium has outlined ambitious plans, emphasizing RCB’s championship pedigree and passionate fan base. Both the men’s and women’s teams are currently reigning champions in the IPL and Women’s Premier League, respectively, further enhancing the franchise’s appeal.
Aryaman Birla is set to take over as chairman, with Satyan Gajwani serving as vice-chairman. The group expressed pride in becoming custodians of a franchise deeply connected to Bengaluru and committed to elevating it further on and off the field.
With strong financial backing and global sports investment experience, the new ownership signals a transformative phase for RCB as it aims to consolidate its position as a powerhouse in world cricket.
