IPL deal momentum peaks with record RCB sale
A wave of high-value franchise transactions has reshaped the Indian Premier League’s investment landscape, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru now setting a new benchmark at the very top end of the market.
The franchise has been acquired for US$ 1.78 billion (approx. INR 16,732 crore), marking the highest valuation recorded for an IPL team and overtaking the recently completed Rajasthan Royals transaction.
The deal sees United Spirits Limited (USL), the India arm of Diageo, exit full ownership of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL), transferring control to a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group alongside The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone.
“This announcement concludes the strategic review of RCSPL that was initiated by USL, as announced on November 05, 2025. The transaction is subject to satisfactory completion of customary closing conditions and legal, regulatory and other approvals, including from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Competition Commission of India,” United Spirits Limited said in an official release.
From late entry to winning bid
The outcome caps a rapidly evolving sale process that intensified in its final stages.
As previously reported by cricexec, a consortium combining the Aditya Birla Group and global sports investor David Blitzer had entered the race relatively late, adding a fresh layer of competition to an already active bidding environment.
That late momentum ultimately translated into a successful bid, with the same group now forming the core of the acquiring consortium and completing one of the most significant franchise transactions in cricket history.
The broader deal activity has unfolded alongside another major sale, where Rajasthan Royals changed hands for US$ 1.63 billion (approx. INR 15,322 crore), underlining the sharp upward shift in IPL franchise valuations within a compressed timeframe.
Ownership transition and leadership structure
Under the new structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla will take on the role of Chairman, while Satyan Gajwani has been appointed Vice Chairman.
“This transaction marks an important milestone for USL as we sharpen focus on our core beverage alcohol business to unlock its true potential with sustained growth, and to continue delivering on long-term value creation for our stakeholders. RCB has grown into the most prominent and commercially successful franchise in the IPL and WPL. Guided by its ‘Play Bold’ philosophy and a strong competitive spirit, it has built a globally recognized brand and a passionate fan base. We are excited for the future of RCB under the stewardship of the new owner. As Sports enters a new phase of growth in India & globally, we believe this is in the best interest of the franchise and our stakeholders. On behalf of USL, I thank everyone who has contributed to RCB’s journey for their continued support – the BCCI, the fans, players and employees,” Praveen Someshwar, MD & CEO of United Spirits Limited, said in a statement.
New owners outline global growth vision
The incoming ownership group has positioned the acquisition as a long-term strategic play, anchored in both brand expansion and on-field success.
“We are proud to become custodians of RCB and grateful to USL and Diageo for the franchise they have built. RCB’s championship-winning culture, its deep connection to Bengaluru, and one of the most passionate fanbases in world sport make this an extraordinary opportunity. We are committed to taking RCB to new heights, on the pitch and beyond,” the acquiring consortium said in a statement.
Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, framed the deal within the broader evolution of the IPL ecosystem, stating in an official statement, “Over the past two decades, the IPL has morphed to become a global sporting powerhouse that has changed the face of Indian cricket creating enormous value for India. 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. We are delighted to become custodians of this asset and committed to further building this extraordinary legacy.”
Strategic backing strengthens global investor mix
The composition of the consortium reflects a growing convergence between domestic conglomerates and international sports capital.
David Blitzer, Founder of Bolt Ventures, highlighted the franchise’s global positioning, stating in an official statement, “RCB has a world-class fanbase, and the IPL is one of the great growth stories in global sport. Having invested in clubs and leagues around the world, I believe the opportunity at RCB stands out. We look forward to working alongside our partners and the BCCI to build on the franchise’s championship success.”
Echoing that sentiment, Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE, said in an official statement, “We are excited to invest in RCB, building on Blackstone’s long-standing commitment to India. RCB stands out as one of the most popular sports franchises in the world with a powerful brand, a loyal fan base, and multiple avenues for growth. Together with our partners, we look forward to supporting the franchise’s enduring legacy and continued success.”
Satyan Gajwani added that the focus would remain both global and local, stating in an official statement, “RCB is the reigning champion and the most popular brand in the IPL. As The Times of India Group, together with our partners, we will build RCB into a global sporting institution, while remaining rooted in Bengaluru and Karnataka and its incredible fanbase. We are committed to the people who built this championship-winning culture – the players, coaches, the leadership team, and the fans. We look forward to supporting the team as they take the pitch on Saturday to defend RCB’s title.”
Long-term outlook signals next phase for IPL assets
For the new leadership, the transaction represents not just a change in ownership, but the beginning of a new growth cycle for one of the league’s most commercially powerful teams.
“It is a privilege to come together in this partnership to shape the next phase of growth for RCB. This partnership brings together a deep understanding of sports, media and consumer businesses. Together, we will continue to Play Bold – on the pitch, in the community, and for the fans who make RCB what it is,” Aryaman Vikram Birla said in a statement.
With back-to-back franchise deals crossing the US$ 1.6 billion mark, the IPL’s valuation curve continues to steepen, reinforcing its position as one of the most attractive investment properties in global sport.
