Key moments
In a landmark development for the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Aditya Birla Group, in partnership with The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, has acquired 100% of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from United Spirits Ltd. The transaction, which took place on March 25, 2026, is valued at an astonishing US$1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,660 crore), making it the most expensive IPL franchise sold to date.
The acquisition allows United Spirits to concentrate on its core beverage business, a strategic move initiated after the company began a review of its holding in RCB back in November 2025. The consortium’s decision to purchase RCB reflects a commitment to elevate the franchise, which has a storied history in the IPL, albeit with only two titles to its name over 18 years of competition.
As part of the acquisition, Aryaman Vikram Birla has been appointed as the chairman of RCB, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as vice-chairman. This leadership change is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies aimed at enhancing the franchise’s performance and fan engagement. The consortium expressed pride in becoming custodians of RCB, pledging to take the team to greater heights.
The deal encompasses full ownership of both the IPL and Women’s Premier League (WPL) teams, further solidifying the consortium’s investment in cricket. Notably, RCB has a world-class fanbase, and the IPL is recognized as one of the great growth stories in global sport, as highlighted by David Blitzer, a member of the consortium.
Details of the acquisition are still pending formal approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India. This approval is a customary step in such high-profile transactions, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
In the context of the IPL’s overall valuation, which is pegged at USD 18.5 billion according to investment bank Houlihan Lokey, the acquisition of RCB represents a significant investment in a franchise that has been a focal point of cricketing passion in India. Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, remarked that RCB offers a distinctive platform to extend the group’s legacy into the arena of global sport.
The consortium’s excitement about the acquisition is palpable, with Viral Patel from Blackstone stating, “We are excited to invest in RCB, building on Blackstone’s long-standing commitment to India.” This acquisition not only marks a new chapter for RCB but also highlights the increasing financial stakes in the world of sports franchises.
As the IPL continues to grow in prominence and value, the successful acquisition of RCB by the Aditya Birla Group and its partners could set a precedent for future investments in the league, reshaping the competitive landscape of Indian cricket.
