The new beginning and journey for one of the most-followed teams, RCB, has started. RCB’s previous owner, USL (United Spirits Limited), a subsidiary of Diageo plc, has decided to sell the team. A consortium comprising the Aditya Birla Group, Times of India, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone has now acquired cricket franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The most followed and one of the strongest teams in the IPL now has new owners from different industries. From institutions, media giants, investment firms, and venture capital players, such as Bolt Ventures, assets are coming together.
The deal has been made for a $1.78 billion consortium acquisition that includes both the men’s and women’s RCB IPL teams. The beverages giant Diageo, in November, which owns USL, its subsidiary in India, stated in its filing to Indian market regulators. To the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), cricket is a non-core area for the company. Therefore, they are conducting a strategic review of their investment in RCB. With additional attention, they aim to close the sale by March 31st this year, and they have done so.
The blog explores the strategic breakdown of this deal, which is essential for the online cricket ID taker for IPL 2026.
The Details of the Biggest Deal Made in IPL 2026 History
According to official media released by USL, its board has approved the final decision to sell the franchise to the consortium. Getting the full ownership of the Royal Challengers Bangalore by comprising the Indian and overseas business entities. The deal has been made with one of the biggest amounts, a phenomenal sum of money that can be calculated. By the fact that it is more than the combined value of Lucknow and Ahmedabad IPL franchises. That is INR 12,175 crore, about $1.69 million, which was sold by the BCCI in 2021.
The deal has been done as per the media release and the official announcement by USL and the consortium franchises. However, the next steps include the ratification of the BCCI and the Competition Commission of India before the consortium takes charge. This handover has been one of the greatest in history and a headline maker.
RCB History from Vijay Mallya to the Birla Group Takeover
The Royal Challengers were one of the eight original franchises when the IPL started in 2008. At the same time, it’s the second most expensive at the time of purchase, having been bought by Vijay Mallya, owner of the United Breweries Group, for USD 11.6 million. Then, in 2023, during the WPL announcement, RCB owners bought 901 crore (approx. USD 110 million) to acquire the Bengaluru franchise’s women’s team. That made it the third most expensive among the five women’s teams.
Now, the men’s RCB franchise is owned by the Conoritum team, making it the real owner and decision-maker. These acquisitions made Aryaman Birla the chairman. He also played for Madhya Pradesh and was part of the Rajasthan Royals squad in the IPL. Followed by Stayam Gajwani of the Times of India media outlet group as vice-chairman.
The consortium announced that they are “proud to become custodians” of RCB. Furthermore, consortiums stated, “RCB is one of the most passionate fan bases in the world sport with its winning culture and deep connection to Bengaluru.” Continuing, “That makes this an extraordinary opportunity, and we are committed to taking RCB to new heights, on the pitch and beyond.”
Full Details of the Mega Deal of RCB Franchises IPL 2026
The deal has been made, although bodies have declared there will be no impact on players. They will continue to support and expand their influence while indicating that RCB’s bold play has been highly significant. As for name changes, a rumor is circulating, but there is no such decision to be made, as Ananya Birla has declared on her IG story.
The online cricket ID holder can presumably bet on the team without worry and check the table below for the changes made.
| Aspect | Details |
| Deal Value | ₹16,700 crore (USD 1.78 billion) |
| Seller | United Spirits Limited (Diageo India subsidiary) |
| Buyers (Consortium) | Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures (David Blitzer), Blackstone (BXPE strategy) |
| Ownership Stake | 100% acquisition of both Men’s IPL and Women’s WPL franchises |
| Leadership Roles | Aryaman Vikram Birla – Chairman; Satyan Gajwani (TOI Group) – Vice Chairman |
| Notable Public Face | Ananya Birla (entrepreneur, singer, visible personality of Birla family; confirmed RCB name will remain unchanged) |
| Regulatory Approvals Pending | BCCI, Competition Commission of India, IPL Governing Council |
| Impact on Players | No immediate changes expected; Virat Kohli remains central to RCB identity |
| Franchise Legacy | Defending IPL 2025 champions; WPL champions in 2024 & 2026; first team to hold both titles simultaneously |
Concluding Here!
The dynamics have changed for the RCB franchises in IPL 2026. However, the great support and enthusiasm of fans and the consortium taking over are maintained. Though statements have been made by figures, the new partnership is going to be really dynamic and full of innovations and movements. RCB has been a team of miracles, from the 17-year non-winning streak to IPL and WPL titles, and collecting trophies in consecutive years is record-making. One of the most sought-after players is Virat Kohli. With this huge fanbase, RCB has gained a lot of attention.
Additionally, with this commitment, he will not play for any other IPL franchise if not RCB, as he has secured a large fan base. The continuity has reportedly a great plan for them, which we will see in the coming days. It’s the time of the year when IPL matches get greedy to enjoy yet another adventurous, fun, and entertaining year. Full of IPL fun, chaos, and breathtaking moments, and for even more adventure, do not forget to take an online cricket ID from SkyCricket ID.
FAQs
Who is the new owner of the RCB team after the USL?
The RCB franchise is acquired by a group of companies, including Aditya Birla Group, Times of India, Volt Venture, and Blackstone’s perpetual private equity strategy (BXPE).
The deal of RCB’s franchise has been for how much?
The deal has been done for $1.78 billion, approximately 16,706 crore, which includes both the men’s and women’s IPL RCB teams.
Who is the new assigned chairman and Vice Chairman for RCB?
The Aryaman Vikram Birla, director of the Birla Group, will reportedly be the new chairman of RCB. While Satyam Gajwani is to be the vice chairman for RCB.
Will the RCB’s name change after the takeover?
No. Anaya Birla has confirmed on her social media that there are no such reports.
