The sale of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is now imminent. The team, which is home to stars like Virat Kohli and Smriti Mandhana, is expected to find a new owner by 31st March next year. Diageo, the company that owns the IPL franchise, has officially confirmed that the process of selling the team has begun.
Diageo recently informed the Bombay Stock Exchange about the decision to sell the team. The British corporation has termed it a “strategic review of investments.” Notably, Diageo owns United Spirits Limited, which holds the rights to the team.
In an official statement, the company noted that it is confident the transfer of ownership will be completed by 31st March 2026, ahead of the new IPL season. United Spirits Limited currently owns two teams participating in both the IPL and the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Praveen Someshwar, CEO of United Spirits, stated: “RCB is a valuable and strategic asset of USL. However, it is not critical for our Alcobev business. This step further strengthens our commitment to reviewing USL and Diageo’s enterprise portfolio in India to ensure the long-term value and stability of all stakeholders involved, while ensuring RCB’s best interests are safeguarded.”
Rumours of Diageo’s intention to sell RCB had been circulating for some time. The company has indicated a desire to move away from direct involvement in cricket. After a long wait, Kohli’s team won their first-ever IPL title in 2025, and Smriti Mandhana’s team triumphed in the second season of the WPL in 2024. However, the decision to sell the team, following back-to-back successes, has come as a surprise to many.
It remains to be seen who will step forward to acquire this iconic IPL franchise.