Royal Challengers Bengaluru is officially up for sale now after years of speculation. The search for new owners of RCB has grabbed everyone’s attention in cricket circles. United Spirits Limited wants to sell the team for roughly $2 billion.
That’s about ₹17,762 crore, making RCB one of the priciest sports teams worldwide. United Spirits is a Diageo company that’s owned RCB since the IPL started. But alcohol ads aren’t allowed in Indian sports, which makes things tough for them.
Why United Spirits is Selling RCB
Diageo decided to let go of RCB because of advertising restrictions in India. Alcohol brands can’t promote themselves during sports events here, which creates real problems. The tragic stampede during RCB’s IPL 2025 celebration also pushed this decision forward, sadly.
That terrible incident killed 11 people and shook everyone connected to the franchise. United Spirits realised that holding onto RCB doesn’t make business sense anymore under these conditions. The company wants to move away from sports ownership in this market now.
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Adar Poonawalla Leads the Race
Adar Poonawalla from Serum Institute of India is the frontrunner to become the owner. He’s got the money and interest to take RCB to new heights ahead. Several global funds are also checking out this opportunity, according to Lalit Modi.
“One of the big global funds or sovereign funds would desperately like to have them as part of their India strategy. This will definitely set a new record valuation and become the floor price for all IPL teams. I am sure Citi will do a great job auctioning the team,” Lalit said.
The new owners of RCB will inherit a massive fanbase built over 17 years. Virat Kohli’s presence since 2008 has made RCB super popular across India and beyond. RCB’s brand value shot up even more after winning IPL 2025 recently.
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Record-Breaking Deal Expected
This sale will set new records for IPL franchise valuations moving forward, surely. The Torrent Group paid less for the Gujarat Titans stake compared to this deal. The new owners of RCB are getting an iconic cricket brand with crazy fan engagement.
Global investors see huge potential in RCB’s future growth and revenue streams ahead.
