RCB Franchise Officially Put Up for Sale
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been officially put on sale by its current owners, Diageo, with the process expected to be completed by March 31, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- RCB franchise ownership is being sold by Diageo through United Spirits Ltd.
- The strategic review aims to find new owners by March 31, 2026.
- Multiple major Indian business groups have shown acquisition interest.
Official Disclosure and Strategic Review
In a formal communication to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Diageo described the move as a “strategic review” of Investment Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RCSPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of United Spirits Ltd.
The statement clarified: “USL is initiating a strategic review of the investment in its wholly owned subsidiary, RCSPL. RCSPL’s business comprises ownership of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise team that participates in the men’s Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women’s Premier League (WPL) cricket tournaments hosted by the BCCI annually.”
The disclosure was made under SEBI’s Regulation 30, with the company targeting completion by March 31, 2026.
Ownership Rationale
Praveen Someswar, Managing Director and CEO of USL, explained the decision: “RCSPL has been a valuable and strategic asset for USL. However, it is non-core to our alcobev business. This step reinforces USL’s and Diageo’s commitment to continue reviewing its India enterprise portfolio to enable sustained delivery of long-term value to all its stakeholders.”
Potential Buyers Emerge
Multiple interested parties have already registered their interest in acquiring the high-profile franchise. According to reports, potential buyers include:
- JSW Group
- Adani Group
- Adar Poonawalla of Serum Institute of India
- Ravi Jaipuria of Devyani International Group
- A US-based private investment firm
The sale marks a significant shift in ownership for one of IPL’s most popular franchises.
