Vijay Mallya Responds to Critics After RCB's Record Sale

Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has responded to critics after the franchise's record sale for nearly USD 2 billion. Reflecting on his journey since acquiring RCB in 2008, Mallya expressed pride in the franchise's growth and shared fond memories, including his role in selecting Virat Kohli. Despite his legal troubles, he remains connected to RCB and urges fans to continue their support. Discover more about Mallya's insights and the implications of this significant sale in the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 11:31 IST

Mallya's Reaction to RCB Sale

On Thursday, Vijay Mallya, the former owner of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), addressed his detractors who labeled his investment as merely a 'vanity project' following the franchise's sale for nearly USD 2 billion (approximately Rs 18,776 crore).

Mallya, who acquired RCB for Rs 450 crore back in 2008, took to X to extend his congratulations to the new owners, expressing his best wishes and hoping for their success with what is now the most valuable franchise in the IPL.

The sale, executed by United Spirits Ltd (USL), is reported to be close to a record USD 2 billion, which includes a Rs 540-crore payment for the Women's Premier League and a 5% commission to the BCCI from the purchasing consortium, as per insider information.

On Tuesday, USL confirmed the all-cash transaction of Rs 16,660 crore to a consortium comprising the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone.

In response to the sale, Mallya reflected, 'When I purchased the franchise in 2008 for Rs 450 crore, many mocked me and dismissed my investment as a vanity project.'

He added, 'The so-called madness was actually about building the Royal Challenge brand, which is why I named the franchise RCB.'

Mallya expressed satisfaction in witnessing his initial investment of Rs 450 crore appreciate to Rs 16,500 crore (Rs 16,660 crore).

He emphasized that RCB will always hold a special place in his heart, recalling fond memories, including the selection of young talent Virat Kohli, who has since become one of the world's best players.

In his message, Mallya expressed gratitude to all RCB supporters who stood by him during his tenure and encouraged them to continue supporting RCB, the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara.

Currently residing in the UK since March 2016, Mallya is wanted in India for defaulting on loans amounting to Rs 9,000 crore taken by the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines from various banks.

India has been pursuing Mallya's extradition from the UK. He previously claimed he was willing to repay the full amount of 'public money' but alleged that banks and the government rejected his offer.