On March 26, 2026, a significant shift occurred in the world of Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket as the ownership of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) transitioned from Vijay Mallya to a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group. This momentous event, which took place in Bengaluru, has been marked as the largest deal in IPL history, with RCB being sold for an astonishing INR 16,660 crore.
Vijay Mallya, who had originally acquired RCB in 2008 for INR 450 crore, expressed his sentiments about the sale, stating, “RCB will always remain a part of my DNA.” His journey with the franchise has been filled with ups and downs, facing criticism for his extravagant investment back in 2008.
The consortium that now holds the reins of RCB includes notable entities such as The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. The sale was finalized as an all-cash transaction, with United Spirits Limited selling 100 percent equity in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL).
As the deal was announced, Mallya also extended his congratulations to the new owners, saying, “I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB.” This marks a new chapter for the franchise, which has been a prominent name in the IPL since its inception.
However, the sale was pending regulatory approvals from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India, which adds a layer of anticipation to the proceedings. The outcome of these approvals will determine the finality of this historic transaction.
The implications of this sale are profound, not just for Mallya but for the entire IPL landscape. With a new ownership structure, fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how the direction of RCB will change under the stewardship of the Aditya Birla Group and its partners.
As the dust settles on this monumental deal, the cricketing community watches closely, aware that this transition could redefine the future of RCB and its aspirations in the league.
In a sport where ownership plays a crucial role in shaping the identity and success of a franchise, the new owners have a significant task ahead of them. The expectations are high, and the journey to reclaiming the IPL trophy is set to begin anew.
For Mallya, this chapter closes with a mix of nostalgia and hope, while for the new owners, the challenge of living up to the legacy and potential of RCB awaits.
