RCB Sold for ₹16,700 Crore as Aditya Birla-Led Group Takes Charge

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have entered a new era, with a powerful group of investors taking over the franchise in a record-breaking deal.

The Aditya Birla Group, along with Times of India Group, Blackstone and Bolt Ventures, has bought RCB for about $1.78 billion, around ₹16,700 crore.

This makes it one of the most expensive franchise deals in global T20 cricket history.

The franchise moves on from United Spirits Limited, which has fully exited ownership after starting the sale process in November 2025.

RCB come into this transition at a high point, as defending champions in both the IPL and the WPL. The new owners will look to build on this success while expanding the brand globally.

Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, said, “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.”

Aryaman Birla added, “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.”

Building a Global Brand

The Times of India Group holds the second-largest stake in the new setup and has made its intent clear.

Satyan Gajwani of Times Internet Limited said, “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.”

Meanwhile, outgoing owners United Spirits also shared their thoughts on the transition.

Praveen Someshwar, the company’s CEO, said, “We are excited for the future of RCB under the stewardship of the new owners. 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.”

Earlier reports had linked Adar Poonawalla with a potential stake, but that deal did not go through.

RCB will now continue under this new joint ownership as they prepare to defend their IPL 2026 title under captain Rajat Patidar.