Official: RCB to be sold before March 31, 2026 - Here is the price tag for the team
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise is officially up for sale, announced by Diageo Plc, the UK-based owner, as part of a strategic review.
Last Updated: 10.03 PM, Nov 05, 2025
It is official. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, renowned in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women’s Premier League (WPL), has been put on sale. The owners, Diageo Plc, have initiated the process of selling the franchise, with strong confidence that the transaction will be completed by March 31, 2026. This announcement marks a significant moment in the IPL ecosystem, potentially reshaping the league’s landscape with a landmark sale.
RCB to be sold before March 31, 2026
Diageo, the UK-based multinational company that acquired RCB from Kingfisher’s United Spirits, announced in a formal notice to the Bombay Stock Exchange on November 5, 2025.
The statement described the sale as part of a “strategic review of the investment” in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt. Ltd (RCSPL), a wholly owned subsidiary responsible for managing both RCB men’s and women’s teams.
The franchise’s sale comes after a rollercoaster year for RCB, highlighted by their maiden IPL title victory earlier in 2025. The triumph ended an 18-year wait, propelling RCB to new heights of popularity and valuation. However, the owners have decided that it is time to monetise this asset, viewing the timing as ideal given the team’s success and strong brand presence.
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The price can go upto INR 16,800 crores
Reports suggest Diageo aims to set a new valuation benchmark for IPL franchises, with industry sources indicating a potential asking price of up to USD 2 billion (approximately INR 16,800 crores). If achieved, this would be the highest price ever recorded for a cricket franchise globally, elevating the IPL’s already lofty status as one of the world’s most valuable sports leagues.
The sale has attracted interest from high-profile investors, including Indian business magnates such as Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, who is reportedly a frontrunner in the bidding. His public statements praising RCB’s brand value have added fuel to widespread speculation regarding his takeover plans.