In a much-awaited deal, an investor group comprising the Aditya Birla Group (ABG), The Times of India Group (ToI), Bolt Ventures (Bolt), and Blackstone Perpetual Equity Strategy (BXPE, Blackstone) has jointly acquired Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for a value of USD 1.78 billion, which is approximately Rs 16,706 crore.
This RCB sale valuation is more than the combined value of the Lucknow and Ahmedabad IPL franchises, USD 1.69 billion, which the BCCI sold for in 2021.
Who Is The New RCB Owner Now?
After the RCB sale, UBS stated that both the Men's and Women's RCB teams, which were run by Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited, will now be owned and operated by the consortium.
Under the new ownership structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla, the director of the Aditya Birla Group, will be the chairman. Satyan Gajwani, the chairman of TOI, will take the role of vice chairman. The consortium will also have David Blitzer, founder of Bolt Ventures, and Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE.
RCB’s Ownership History
In 2008, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was one of the eight original franchises bought by Vijay Mallya, the chairman of USL, for USD 111.6 million. After Mallya’s exit from India in 2016, the control was taken over by UK-based Diageo.
After the infamous stampede on June 4, 2025, following the RCB’s victory, resulting in the loss of 11 lives and many injuries, the company came under pressure to divest its stake, as cricket is not its core business. Diageo decided to sell its stake on November 25 and filed with SEBI that it is conducting a ‘strategic review' of its RCB investment, aiming to close its sale by 31st March 2026.
United Spirit Limited MD Statement
Praveen Someshwar, the MD & CEO of USL, stated, "We are excited for the future of RCB under the stewardship of the new owners. As sports enter a new phase of growth in India & globally, we believe this is in the best interest of the franchise and our stakeholders. On behalf of USL, I thank everyone who has contributed to RCB's journey for their continued support- the BCCI, the fans, players, and employees."
"This transaction marks an important milestone for USL as we sharpen our focus on our core beverage alcohol business to unlock its true potential with sustained growth and to continue delivering on long-term value creation for our stakeholders. RCB has grown into the most prominent and commercially successful franchise in the IPL and WPL. Guided by its 'Play Bold' philosophy and a strong competitive spirit, it has built a globally recognised brand and a passionate fan base."
Statement By Aquiring Group
"It is a privilege to come together in this partnership to shape the next phase of growth for RCB. This partnership brings together a deep understanding of sports, media, and consumer businesses. Together, we will continue to Play Bold on the pitch, in the community, and for the fans who make RCB what it is," Aryaman Birla, the presiding chairman, stated.
"We are excited to invest in RCB, building on Blackstone's long-standing commitment to India. RCB stands out as one of the most popular sports franchises in the world with a powerful brand, a loyal fan base, and multiple avenues for growth. Together with our partners, we look forward to supporting the franchise's enduring legacy and continued success," Patel commented.
Is CSK Share Valuation Reaching an All-Time High a Shadow Effect?
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), another highly valued franchise, reached an all-time high valuation of Rs 306 per share in the last week of March 26. This valuation increase could be a shadow effect of other franchises like the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore being sold at hefty valuations, increasing the investors' value of stakes in CSK Unlisted Shares.
Read Here To Know More: CSK Unlisted Share Reaches All-Time High, Why a 26% Rise in 1 Week?
