In a significant turn of events, Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has sold the franchise for an astounding INR 16,660 crore. This transaction, which took place on March 26, 2026, in Bengaluru, marks the largest deal in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Mallya’s journey with RCB began in 2008 when he acquired the team for INR 450 crore. At the time, his investment faced criticism for being extravagant, yet it positioned RCB as one of the most recognized franchises in the league.
The recent sale was executed as an all-cash transaction, with the consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group, which also includes notable organizations such as The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. This diverse consortium reflects a strategic move to enhance the franchise’s market presence and operational capabilities.
As part of the sale, United Spirits Limited sold 100 percent equity in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL). The deal, however, remains pending regulatory approvals from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India.
In a statement reflecting on the sale, Mallya expressed his sentiments, saying, “RCB will always remain a part of my DNA.” He also extended his congratulations to the new owners, stating, “I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB.”
This sale not only signifies a financial milestone but also indicates a shift in the ownership landscape of IPL franchises. The involvement of major corporate entities suggests a growing trend of institutional investment in sports.
Currently, the cricketing community is abuzz with discussions about the implications of this sale. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how the new ownership will influence RCB’s performance in upcoming seasons.
The transition of ownership from Mallya to the Aditya Birla Group consortium is a pivotal moment for RCB, as it opens new avenues for growth and development within the franchise.
As the dust settles on this historic deal, the future of RCB looks promising under new management, with expectations high for revitalized strategies and enhanced competitiveness in the IPL.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific plans the new owners have for RCB, but the cricketing world watches closely as this new chapter unfolds.
