RCB on sale? Diageo reportedly exploring sale after franchise's IPL triumph, $2 billion valuation
Bengaluru: Days after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, their current owner, Diageo Plc, is reportedly considering selling the franchise, according to a report by The Economic Times.
Sources familiar with the matter have said that Diageo, which owns RCB through its Indian subsidiary United Spirits Ltd, has begun consulting potential advisers to evaluate strategic options. These range from a partial stake sale to a full divestment. While no final decision has been made, the company is believed to be seeking a valuation of up to $2 billion for the popular franchise.
This development comes amid a broader regulatory crackdown by India’s health ministry on the indirect promotion of alcohol and tobacco brands in sports, particularly in the IPL. Diageo is reportedly reassessing its non-core assets as part of a strategic review, especially as its premium liquor business faces pressure in key markets such as the United States.
RCB was initially purchased by Vijay Mallya, then a prominent liquor baron and owner of Kingfisher Airlines. Following the collapse of Mallya’s business empire, Diageo took control of United Spirits and, subsequently, the RCB franchise.
Despite being one of the most followed teams in the IPL, thanks to stars like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Faf du Plessis, RCB had long struggled to win a title, until their recent 2025 victory.
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K'taka Home Minister seeks report on M'luru Police Commissioner following allegations of harassment
Bengaluru:Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara has directed theDirector General and Inspector General of Police(DGP ad IG) to submit a report in connection with allegations of harassment levelled by Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE) SP S.S. Kashi against Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy, as well as by DCRE Inspector T.R. Srinivas against senior officials.
The Minister confirmed the development while speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Tuesday, April 21.
“I have noticed reports in the media regarding the allegations involving police officers. The DCRE inspector has made several allegations, and SP S.S. Kashi has also written a letter. I have asked the DGP to submit a report on both cases. Action will be taken based on the findings,” he said.
Referring to the Enforcement Directorate raids on the residences linked to the children of MLA N.A. Harris, he said the reasons behind the searches were not yet known. “The ED officials should clarify the purpose of the raids and what was found. Usually, they issue press statements. Until then, any comments would be premature and irrelevant,” he added.
Speaking on the Bitcoin scam, the Minister said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been constituted in the state and that the probe was in its final stages.
“The case has national and international dimensions. Information is being gathered on multiple aspects, and a final report will be submitted. Officials have indicated that the investigation is nearing completion. However, instructions have already been given to file an interim charge sheet,” he said.
