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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