Royal Challengers Bengaluru have new owners.
A four-group consortium acquired RCB for USD 1.78 billion in March 2026.
The deal was confirmed on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
The sale covers both the men’s IPL team and the women’s WPL team.
It marks one of the biggest franchise deals in Indian cricket history.
Four-Group Consortium Acquired RCB for USD 1.78 Billion
Who Bought RCB?
Four groups joined together to buy the franchise. Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone’s BXPE are the new owners.
They signed an agreement with United Spirits Limited to acquire a 100 percent stake in RCB.
Aryaman Vikram Birla from Aditya Birla Group will serve as Chairman. Satyan Gajwani from The Times of India Group becomes Vice Chairman.
David Blitzer, founder of Bolt Ventures, and Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE, complete the ownership group.
Deal Still Needs Approval
The sale isn’t final yet. It requires approval from BCCI, the Competition Commission of India, and other regulatory authorities.
Once cleared, the new owners will take full control of the franchise.
Kumar Mangalam Birla said the group was committed to building on RCB’s legacy.
Satyan Gajwani called RCB the most popular brand in the IPL.
He said the new owners would work to turn it into a global sporting institution while staying rooted in Bengaluru and Karnataka.
David Blitzer said the opportunity at RCB stood out compared to other clubs and leagues he has invested in worldwide.
What does this mean for IPL 2026?
RCB won their first IPL title in 2025. They’ll defend that trophy in IPL 2026 under new ownership.
Their opening match is on March 28 against SunRisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The new owners will take charge almost immediately after the announcement.
The USD 1.78 billion valuation shows how much IPL franchises have grown in value over the years.
| Owner Group | Key Representative |
|---|---|
| Aditya Birla Group | Aryaman Vikram Birla (Chairman) |
| The Times of India Group | Satyan Gajwani (Vice Chairman) |
| Bolt Ventures | David Blitzer |
| Blackstone BXPE | Viral Patel |
The timing of this deal is significant. RCB was sold in March 2026, just days before the new season started.
The consortium brings together expertise in sports, media, and consumer businesses.
That combination could shape how RCB operates both on and off the field in the coming years.
Also Check:
About the Author
