RCB Sale Confirmed: New Owner Expected by March 2026

RCB Set for Ownership Change as United Spirits Exits

In a major shake-up for the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise is officially on the block. Parent company United Spirits Limited (USL)—a subsidiary of global beverage giant Diageo—is actively reviewing its ownership stake in both the men’s and women’s RCB teams, with a deal expected to conclude by March 31, 2026 .

This strategic move comes as USL sharpens its focus on its core alcohol-beverage business, signaling the end of an era for one of the IPL’s most iconic—and emotionally charged—franchises.

Why Is RCB Being Sold Now?

Despite never lifting the IPL trophy, RCB remains one of the league’s most valuable assets. Boasting a massive global fan base, marquee stars like Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, and a strong digital and merchandising presence, the franchise is anything but a financial liability.

However, corporate strategy is driving the sale. Diageo, which owns USL, has been streamlining non-core investments globally. Cricket, while culturally significant, doesn’t align with its long-term beverage-centric roadmap. This isn’t a fire sale—it’s a calculated exit from a passion project turned legacy brand.

What Does This Mean for RCB’s Future?

Fans may worry about team identity, but experts believe the franchise’s brand value will attract serious bidders. Potential buyers could include:

• Indian conglomerates (Reliance, Adani, Tata)
• Tech giants (Infosys, Wipro, or even a unicorn startup)
• Global sports investors with IPL experience
• Existing IPL owners looking to expand their portfolio

Importantly, the BCCI mandates that any new owner must commit to both the men’s and women’s teams—a policy that’s likely to boost investment in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) as well.

Will RCB’s Legacy Survive the Sale?

For millions of fans, RCB isn’t just a team—it’s a symbol of loyalty, heartbreak, and hope. The iconic red jersey, the chants of “Ee Sala Cup Namde,” and Virat Kohli’s lifelong association have created an emotional ecosystem few sports brands can replicate.

While the ownership may change, analysts agree the franchise’s core identity will likely remain intact. The BCCI typically requires continuity in branding and home base (Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru), ensuring fans won’t see a sudden rebrand or relocation.

Timeline and Key Dates

Milestone	Expected Date
Formal sale process launch	Q1 2026
Expression of Interest deadline	December 2025
New owner announcement	By March 31, 2026
First season under new ownership	IPL 2026

Even amid recent off-field controversies, RCB’s commercial strength remains undeniable. Its social media following, broadcast appeal, and merchandise sales consistently rank among the top three in the IPL.

Sources

• Times of India: RCB set to be sold, likely to get new owner before March 31, 2026