Bengaluru: In a major development for Indian cricket, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) — the reigning IPL 2025 champions — have officially been put on sale by their parent company, Diageo, through its Indian subsidiary, United Spirits Limited (USL).
The company confirmed that it has begun a “strategic review” of its investment in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RCSPL), which owns both the men’s IPL and women’s WPL teams under the RCB brand. Diageo expects the sale process to be completed by March 31, 2026.
RCB’s Rise and the Strategic Move by Diageo
RCB’s sale comes just months after a historic season in which the franchise clinched its first-ever IPL title in 2025, following years of near misses. The team, led by stars like Virat Kohli, Smriti Mandhana, and Josh Hazlewood, also tasted success in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), lifting the trophy in 2024.
Despite these triumphs, Diageo has described the sports business as “non-core” to its primary alcoholic beverage operations. The decision to sell, the company says, aligns with its goal of focusing on long-term value creation for shareholders.
Potential Buyers and Estimated Valuation
According to reports, Diageo is seeking a valuation of around USD 2 billion for RCB. Sources suggest that Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India and a prominent sports enthusiast, is among the interested parties eyeing the acquisition.
In a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), USL stated:
“United Spirits Ltd is initiating a strategic review of the investment in its wholly owned subsidiary, RCSPL… The process is expected to conclude by March 31, 2026.”
USL’s Managing Director & CEO Praveen Someshwar added that while RCB has been a “valuable and strategic asset,” the sale will allow the company to “sustain long-term growth and deliver value to all stakeholders.”
RCB to Continue Operations During Sale Process
Even as ownership discussions progress, RCB will continue normal operations, including participation in upcoming auctions. The franchise is set to bid for players in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction on November 27.
Fans can expect business as usual on the field, as the transition will primarily impact the ownership structure rather than the team’s competitive plans.
With a strong global brand, passionate fanbase, and recent championship success, RCB’s sale marks one of the most significant transactions in IPL history. The finalization of this deal by March 31, 2026, could reshape the financial and commercial landscape of Indian franchise cricket once again.
