The franchise cricket landscape was shaken after reports emerged that the iconic Royal Challengers Bengaluru, one of India’s richest franchises, has been purchased for a whopping USD 1.78 billion or approximately ₹16,660 crore by a fresh ownership group. The decision was announced by United Spirits Limited (USL), which previously owned the franchise and, through its subsidiary Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited, had managed both the men’s and women’s teams. The sale is one of the largest in international sports franchise history and underscores the rapidly advancing commercial value of cricket leagues in India.
This new owner is a consortium of top business houses such as the Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures and Blackstone via its private equity strategy BXPE. The consortium will have complete ownership of both RCB franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the women’s Women’s Premier League (WPL) after the transaction secures necessary regulatory approval, an official statement said. The agreement is subject to ratification by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and clearance from the Competition Commission of India before it becomes formal.
RCB’s astonishing price tag is also indicative of how valuable the franchise has become ever since the IPL kicked off in 2008. The Bengaluru franchise was bought for a paltry USD 111.6 million by the United Breweries Group led by Vijay Mallya during those days. The franchise has since grown into one of the most successful T20 teams in history, boasting a massive global fan base and becoming one of the most recognizable brands in cricket. The franchise has also found success in recent seasons, with both its men’s and women’s teams winning major trophies.
The consortium has already set out its leadership structure. Former Madhya Pradesh domestic cricketer and IPL player Aryaman Birla will be the chairperson. Times of India Group’s Satyan Gajwani has been made vice-chairman. We are looking forward to bring our working ethos and philosophies which would further evolve on field and off the field for strengthening the franchise,” said the group in a statement.
Under new ownership and with such a high-profile investment, the future of Royal Challengers Bengaluru has never been brighter as they aim for another chapter in expanding the team’s global brand while also competing for success on the field.
