In a surprising turn of events, the newly crowned IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been officially put up for sale by their current owners, Diageo, the UK-based parent company of United Spirits Limited (USL). The announcement marks the beginning of a major ownership transition for one of the Indian Premier League’s most followed franchises.
Diageo confirmed through a disclosure to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) that it has initiated a “strategic review of its investment” in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt. Ltd. (RCSPL), the wholly owned subsidiary that manages RCB’s IPL and Women’s Premier League (WPL) teams. The company aims to complete the sale process by March 31, 2026.
RCB’s rise to glory this year, after 18 long seasons, has made the news even more significant. Having clinched their first-ever IPL title in 2025, and the WPL championship in 2024, the franchise has cemented its position as one of India’s strongest cricketing brands.
According to reports, Diageo is seeking a valuation of around USD 2 billion for RCB. The franchise contributed 8.3% to United Spirits’ total profits in the financial year ending March 31, 2025. Business circles have also hinted that Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, is among the interested buyers.
RCB’s current ownership traces back to 2015, when Diageo took control of Vijay Mallya’s UB Group assets and became the sole owner by 2016. Despite years of near misses, RCB’s fanbase and brand value estimated at USD 269 million by Houlihan Lokey have remained among the highest in the IPL.
With the player retention deadline set for November 15 and the WPL auction on November 27, the team will continue regular operations under Diageo until the sale is finalized.
As RCB steps into a new chapter, one thing is clear, the red and gold spirit that fuels the Chinnaswamy roar is here to stay.