Key moments
In a landmark development for Indian cricket, the Aditya Birla Group, alongside The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, has acquired 100% of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from United Spirits Ltd. The transaction, which took place on March 25, 2026, is valued at an astonishing US$1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,660 crore), making it the most expensive IPL franchise sold to date.
The acquisition marks a significant shift in ownership for RCB, which has been a prominent team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception. Aryaman Vikram Birla will take the helm as chairman of RCB, with Satyan Gajwani stepping in as vice-chairman. This leadership transition is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the franchise.
The deal not only includes full ownership of RCB but also extends to the Women’s Premier League (WPL) team, reflecting the consortium’s commitment to enhancing the franchise’s profile in both men’s and women’s cricket. The acquisition is currently pending customary closing conditions, including approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL governing council.
This acquisition follows a strategic review initiated by United Spirits in November 2025, which aimed to refocus the company on its core beverage business. The move to sell RCB allows United Spirits to streamline its operations while handing over the reins to a consortium that has expressed pride in becoming custodians of the franchise.
Historically, United Spirits had submitted a winning bid of $111.6 million (approximately ₹485 crore) to acquire RCB back in 2008. The franchise has since been a significant player in the IPL, boasting a dedicated fanbase and a rich history, although it has yet to clinch the coveted IPL title despite its two appearances in the finals.
The IPL itself has seen a meteoric rise, with its total value pegged at USD 18.5 billion according to investment bank Houlihan Lokey. The consortium’s acquisition of RCB is seen as a strategic investment, tapping into the growing popularity of cricket in India and globally.
In response to the acquisition, Kumar Mangalam Birla stated, “RCB, as one of the most compelling franchises in modern sport, offers the Aditya Birla Group a distinctive platform to extend its legacy of institution-building into the arena of global sport.” Aryaman Vikram Birla added, “It is a privilege to come together in this partnership to shape the next phase of growth for RCB.” Meanwhile, David Blitzer remarked on RCB’s world-class fanbase, emphasizing the IPL’s status as a significant growth story in global sport.
This acquisition is set to reshape the landscape of the IPL, with the consortium committed to elevating RCB to new heights. As the cricketing world watches closely, the implications of this deal will unfold in the coming months, pending the necessary approvals. Details remain unconfirmed.
