Royal Challengers Bengaluru Sold for ₹16,660 Crore to Consortium
RCB Acquired by Consortium for ₹16,660 Crore
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise has been acquired for an impressive ₹16,660 crore (approximately INR 166.6 billion) by a prominent consortium. This group, which includes the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, will gain complete ownership of RCB, covering both its Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women's Premier League (WPL) teams.
Details of the Acquisition
As per a statement from United Spirits Limited (USL), the company's Board of Directors has confirmed that it has finalized agreements to sell its entire equity stake in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) to the aforementioned consortium. This all-cash deal amounts to ₹16,660 crore.
RCSPL is responsible for managing the RCB franchises in both the IPL and WPL. Following the completion of this acquisition, the consortium will assume the rights to operate these franchises. This announcement wraps up the strategic review of RCSPL that USL initiated on November 5, 2025. The transaction is pending the fulfillment of standard closing conditions and necessary legal and regulatory approvals, including those from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India.
USL's Perspective on the Sale
Praveen Someshwar, Managing Director and CEO of USL, commented on the deal, stating, "This transaction signifies a pivotal moment for USL as we concentrate on our core beverage alcohol business to realize its full potential and ensure long-term value for our stakeholders. RCB has evolved into a leading and commercially successful franchise in both the IPL and WPL."
"With its 'Play Bold' philosophy and competitive spirit, RCB has established a globally recognized brand and a dedicated fan base. We are optimistic about RCB's future under the new ownership. As sports enter a new growth phase in India and worldwide, we believe this is beneficial for the franchise and our stakeholders. I extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported RCB's journey, including the BCCI, fans, players, and employees," he added.
New Owners' Commitment to RCB
The consortium expressed their pride in becoming the custodians of RCB, thanking USL and Diageo for the franchise they have developed. They stated, "RCB's championship-winning culture, its strong ties to Bengaluru, and one of the most passionate fanbases in global sports present an extraordinary opportunity. We are dedicated to elevating RCB to new heights, both on and off the field."
About the Consortium
Citigroup India and AZB Partners acted as advisors and legal counsel for USL during this transaction. The consortium comprises partners with diverse strengths in sports, media, technology, and brand development. The Aditya Birla Group is one of India's largest and most esteemed conglomerates, operating in over 40 countries with a legacy spanning more than 165 years.
The Times of India Group is a major media conglomerate in India, managing a comprehensive cricket ecosystem that includes Cricbuzz, Willow TV, Major League Cricket, and the London Spirit. Bolt Ventures is the private investment platform of David Blitzer, a notable sports investor with stakes in various leagues worldwide, including the EPL, NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, and MLS. Blackstone is recognized as the largest alternative asset manager globally, overseeing $1.3 trillion in assets across various investment strategies.