Key moments
In a groundbreaking development for the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Aditya Birla Group, in collaboration with The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, has successfully 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 impressive US$1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,660 crore), marking it as the most expensive IPL franchise sold to date.
The acquisition comes on the heels of a strategic review initiated by United Spirits in November 2025, which aimed to refocus the company on its core beverage business. This decision has allowed the new consortium to step in as custodians of RCB, with plans to elevate the franchise to new heights. Aryaman Vikram Birla has been appointed as the chairman of RCB, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as vice-chairman.
In addition to acquiring the IPL team, the deal also includes full ownership of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) team. This comprehensive acquisition reflects the growing value of cricket in India, where the IPL has become a significant player in the global sports market. According to investment bank Houlihan Lokey, the total value of the IPL is pegged at USD 18.5 billion.
The consortium expressed pride in their new role, with Kumar Mangalam Birla stating, “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.” This sentiment was echoed by David Blitzer, who noted the world-class fanbase of RCB and the IPL’s status as a remarkable growth story in global sport.
Details of the acquisition are still pending formal approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL governing council, which is a customary requirement for such high-profile transactions. The acquisition is expected to bring about significant changes in the management and operational strategies of RCB, aiming to enhance its competitive edge in the league.
United Spirits had previously acquired RCB in 2008 for $111.6 million (approximately ₹485 crore), making this latest transaction a remarkable evolution in the franchise’s financial landscape. The consortium’s commitment to investing in RCB is seen as a long-term strategy to build on the franchise’s existing strengths.
As the IPL continues to grow, the implications of this acquisition could resonate beyond the cricketing world, potentially influencing investment trends in sports franchises globally. With the new ownership, RCB fans are hopeful for a brighter future, as the team has historically struggled to secure an IPL title despite its strong fan engagement.
In a statement, Viral Patel from Blackstone expressed excitement about the investment, emphasizing the firm’s long-standing commitment to India. The acquisition represents a significant shift in the landscape of Indian sports, with the potential to redefine the future of RCB and its place in the IPL hierarchy.
