Birla-led consortium to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru in ₹16,660 crore deal

Bengaluru, March 24, 2026: A consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group, along with The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures and Blackstone, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% stake in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from United Spirits Limited.

The transaction values the franchise at ₹16,660 crore (approximately $1.78 billion), making it one of the biggest deals in global sports franchise history. The acquisition includes both the men’s Indian Premier League (IPL) team and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) side.

The deal remains subject to regulatory approvals, including clearances from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Competition Commission of India, among other authorities.

Under the new ownership structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla will take over as Chairman of RCB, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as Vice Chairman.

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, said the acquisition marks the group’s entry into global sport, calling the IPL a “global sporting powerhouse” that has transformed Indian cricket. He described RCB as one of the most compelling franchises in modern sport and said the group aims to build on its legacy.

Satyan Gajwani of Times Internet highlighted RCB’s strong brand and fan base, noting that the consortium intends to grow the franchise into a global sporting institution while retaining its deep roots in Bengaluru and Karnataka.

David Blitzer of Bolt Ventures said the IPL represents one of the biggest growth stories in global sport, adding that RCB’s global appeal makes it a standout investment. Viral Patel, CEO of Blackstone’s BXPE strategy, emphasised the franchise’s brand strength, loyal fan base, and growth potential.

RCB, one of the most followed teams in the IPL, has built a massive fan base over the years and is currently the reigning champion, further boosting its valuation and global appeal.