(Image source from: x.com/RCBTweets)
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), an Indian Premier League (IPL) team, may soon be under new ownership, just a week after securing their first championship title in 2025. Sources informed NDTV that Diageo Plc, the current owner of the franchise, is actively seeking to sell the team, either in whole or in part. This move follows the excitement generated by the team’s historic win, which ended an 18-year wait for a title. RCB operates in India via its parent company, Diageo Plc, which is reportedly in discussions with potential investors. While the exact valuation of the franchise has not yet been disclosed, Bloomberg has suggested that the owners might seek around USD 2 billion (approximately INR 16,834 crores) for a complete sale.
According to knowledgeable sources, Diageo Plc, the parent company of United Spirits Ltd., is considering options to divest a stake in Royal Challengers Bengaluru, whether fully or partially. The beverage giant is looking for ways to capitalize on the IPL franchise following its recent victory, and they are reportedly engaging potential advisors to assist with this process. The news of a possible sale has positively impacted United Spirits’ stock, which saw an increase of up to 3.3% on Tuesday morning. However, the decision regarding the sale of the franchise has yet to be finalized.
Following the excitement of their IPL title win, RCB faced a tragic incident when celebrations at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru led to the deaths of 11 fans. This unfortunate event significantly dampened the celebratory atmosphere. When the franchise was established in 2008, it was initially acquired by Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Kingfisher Airlines and a prominent figure in India's liquor industry. Mallya fell into serious financial difficulties, leading to the collapse of his empire and allowing Diageo to purchase RCB through its subsidiary, United Spirits. Even with a lack of championship success in the T20 league, RCB continues to boast one of the largest and most engaged fanbases among sports teams on social media worldwide.
