Aditya Birla–Led Consortium Acquires RCB in Record-Breaking $1.78 Billion Deal

New Delhi, March 2026 : In a landmark development that underscores the soaring valuation of franchise cricket, a powerful consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group has acquired a 100 per cent stake in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for an estimated USD 1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,706 crore). The deal, one of the largest in global sports franchise history, marks a significant shift in the ownership landscape of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Women’s Premier League (WPL).

The consortium comprises the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone’s perpetual private equity arm (BXPE). Together, these entities bring a blend of financial strength, media influence, and global sports investment experience. The agreement has been signed with United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of UK-based Diageo plc, which previously owned the franchise.

Under the new structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla will assume the role of Chairman, while media executive Satyan Gajwani will serve as Vice Chairman. Prominent global investors, including Bolt Ventures founder David Blitzer and BXPE CEO Viral Patel, are also part of the ownership group. The acquisition, however, remains subject to regulatory approvals from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Competition Commission of India, and other authorities.

The new owners have expressed strong intent to elevate RCB’s stature as a global sports brand. Kumar Mangalam Birla highlighted that the IPL has evolved into a global powerhouse, and RCB offers a unique platform to extend the group’s legacy into international sports. Echoing this vision, Satyan Gajwani emphasised the importance of preserving the franchise’s deep connection with Bengaluru while expanding its global footprint.

David Blitzer noted that RCB’s passionate fanbase and the IPL’s rapid growth present a compelling opportunity to build a world-class sporting institution. Similarly, Blackstone’s Viral Patel underscored the franchise’s strong brand equity and long-term growth potential, especially as India’s sports ecosystem continues to expand.

RCB’s journey has been remarkable since its inception in 2008, when it was initially acquired by Vijay Mallya for USD 111.6 million. Ownership later transitioned to Diageo following its acquisition of United Spirits. Over the years, the franchise has evolved into one of the most recognisable brands in cricket, known for its loyal fanbase and competitive spirit.

However, recent developments, including the tragic stampede during the team’s 2025 victory celebrations, had intensified pressure on Diageo to divest non-core assets. The company formally initiated the sale process last year as part of its strategic focus on its core business operations.

With the new ownership in place, RCB is poised to enter a transformative phase. Backed by a consortium that combines expertise in business, technology, and sports, the franchise is expected to adopt an innovation-driven approach to fan engagement, branding, and performance.

As the IPL continues to grow as a global sporting phenomenon, this acquisition signals not just a change in ownership, but a bold new chapter for one of its most iconic teams.