Bengaluru (National Times): Just a week after lifting their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) may be heading for a change in ownership. Sources have revealed to NDTV that Diageo Plc, the current owners of the franchise, are actively exploring options to sell their stake, either partially or entirely.
The development follows the team’s historic win in the 2025 IPL season, a triumph that ended an 18-year-long title drought. Insiders suggest that Diageo is looking to capitalise on the franchise’s soaring brand value and momentum post-victory.
RCB is operated in India by United Spirits Ltd, a subsidiary of Diageo Plc. The global liquor conglomerate is reportedly in preliminary discussions with potential investors and has also reached out to advisory firms to help facilitate the deal.
While no official valuation has been disclosed, a Bloomberg report suggests the asking price for a complete sale could reach as high as USD 2 billion (approximately INR 16,834 crore), a figure that would mark one of the largest transactions in IPL history.
News of the potential sale triggered positive sentiment in the market, with United Spirits Ltd shares rising by up to 3.3% on Tuesday morning. However, sources caution that no final decision has been made regarding the sale.
The high of the title win was dampened by tragedy last week, as RCB’s celebration event at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru turned fatal, resulting in the death of 11 fans due to a stampede. The unfortunate incident cast a shadow over what was meant to be a historic moment for the franchise.
A Look Back: From Mallya to Diageo
RCB was one of the original eight IPL teams, launched in 2008 under the ownership of business tycoon Vijay Mallya, then the face of Kingfisher Airlines and a key figure in India’s liquor industry. Financial troubles and mounting debts eventually forced Mallya to relinquish control, allowing Diageo to acquire the team through United Spirits Ltd.
Despite years of underperformance on the field, RCB has built a massive global following, often ranking among the most-followed cricket franchises on social media platforms. The team’s star-studded lineups, led by players like Virat Kohli over the years, have helped cultivate a devoted fanbase.
With a historic title now in the bag, the future of Royal Challengers Bengaluru could see not just a new chapter on the field, but potentially, a new owner off it as well.
