The future of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise is poised for significant change as Diageo has announced a deadline for final bids on its controlling stake. The deadline is set for March 31, 2026, and the sale could fetch up to $2 billion, reflecting the franchise’s status as one of the most valuable sports properties in the subcontinent.
Currently, Diageo owns a 65% controlling stake in RCB through its subsidiary, United Spirits. Despite the franchise’s immense popularity and its role in promoting the Royal Challenge Indian whisky brand, Diageo has deemed it non-core to its primary business interests.
As the deadline approaches, two main parties are in contention for the purchase: a consortium led by EQT and another group spearheaded by Ranjan Pai, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Co. (KKR), and Temasek. This competitive bidding scenario highlights the franchise’s desirability, especially following a 73% revenue surge after RCB’s title win in 2025.
Previously, interest was shown by the Glazer family and Adar Poonawalla; however, their offers reportedly maxed out at $1.8 billion, which may have opened the door for the current bidders to make more competitive offers.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) season is set to commence on March 28, 2026, with RCB scheduled to play their first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on the same day. This timing adds urgency to the bidding process, as the new owners could potentially influence the team’s strategy and performance in the upcoming season.
RCB’s brand value and fan base make it a lucrative investment, and the franchise is often regarded as potentially the most popular team in the cash-rich IPL. As the bidding progresses, the outcome will not only impact the financial landscape of the franchise but also its operational direction in the coming years.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final bids and the potential new ownership structure, but the stakes are undeniably high as the deadline approaches. Investors and fans alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what it means for the future of Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
