Consortium Led By Aditya Birla Group Acquires Franchise
In a historic development for cricket and sports business, a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group has acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a staggering $1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,700 crore). The deal also includes participation from the Times of India Group, Blackstone, and Bolt Ventures.
One Of The Biggest Deals In Sports History
The acquisition marks one of the largest transactions in global sports, underlining the soaring valuation of franchises in the Indian Premier League. The league’s rising revenues, massive global audience, and lucrative media rights have made it a hotspot for major investors worldwide.
End Of United Spirits Ownership Era
RCB was previously owned by United Spirits Limited, a subsidiary of Diageo. The company decided to sell the franchise as part of a strategic move to focus on its core business operations, bringing an end to its long association with the Bengaluru-based team.
New Leadership Structure Announced
Under the new ownership, Aryaman Vikram Birla is set to become chairman of the franchise, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as vice chairman. The consortium brings together expertise from industries including media, private equity, and global sports investments.
Boost For RCB After Recent Success
The acquisition comes shortly after RCB secured its maiden IPL title in 2025, significantly boosting its brand value and financial performance. The franchise has witnessed strong revenue growth, making it one of the most attractive assets in cricket.
What This Means For The Future
The entry of global investors is expected to bring fresh capital, strategic innovation, and international expertise to RCB. The deal not only signals a new era for the franchise but also highlights the growing commercial power of T20 cricket on the global stage.
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