RCB Owners Reportedly Considering Franchise Sale After IPL 2025 Win: Valuation Could Hit $2 Billion

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the Indian Premier League (IPL) team that finally clinched its maiden title in 2025, may soon be changing hands. Reports suggest that the franchise’s current owners, Diageo Plc, are exploring a partial or full sale, with the franchise’s valuation estimated at a massive $2 billion (approximately ₹16,834 crore).

Diageo Mulls RCB Sale Post Historic IPL 2025 Victory

In a major development for IPL and cricket business news, Diageo Plc—the British liquor giant and parent company of United Spirits Ltd.—is reportedly in discussions to sell its stake in Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This comes just a week after the team lifted its first-ever IPL trophy, ending an 18-year-long wait.

Sources close to the matter told NDTV that Diageo is actively evaluating both partial and complete sale options. The company is also engaging with potential advisors to oversee the deal. This strategic move is seen as an effort to capitalize on the franchise’s surging brand value post its championship win.

RCB’s Estimated Valuation: A $2 Billion Price Tag?

While there has been no official statement on the franchise's valuation, reports by Bloomberg indicate that Diageo may seek as much as $2 billion for a full acquisition. This figure places RCB among the most valuable IPL teams, reflecting its massive fanbase, strong digital presence, and now, championship pedigree.

The news had an immediate impact on the market. United Spirits’ stock price jumped by as much as 3.3% on Tuesday morning, signaling strong investor interest following the possible sale announcement.

Celebrations Marred by Tragedy

Amid the celebration of RCB’s long-awaited IPL triumph, tragedy struck during the victory parade at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Reports confirm that 11 fans lost their lives during the overcrowded festivities, casting a shadow over what should have been a historic moment for the team and its supporters.

How Diageo Came to Own Royal Challengers Bengaluru

RCB was originally purchased in 2008 by liquor baron Vijay Mallya, founder of Kingfisher Airlines. However, following financial troubles and mounting debts, Mallya exited the business scene, paving the way for Diageo to take over the team through its Indian subsidiary, United Spirits Ltd.

Since then, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has grown into one of the most followed sports teams globally, especially on social media platforms. Despite years of falling short in the IPL, RCB has consistently maintained one of the league’s most passionate and loyal fanbases.

What’s Next for RCB?

Although no final decision has been made, insiders suggest that the franchise’s rising brand value and recent IPL victory have prompted serious internal discussions. Whether Diageo opts for a full exit or retains a partial stake remains to be seen.

For now, Royal Challengers Bengaluru stands at a crossroads—with a historic win in hand, a strong market valuation, and an uncertain ownership future.