Aditya Birla Group and Times of India Consortium Purchases RCB for $1.78 Billion
Synopsis
In a landmark deal, the Aditya Birla Group and Times of India Group lead a consortium that has acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru for $1.78 billion. This acquisition marks a significant moment in IPL history, with implications for both men's and women's teams.
Key Takeaways
Consortium Acquisition: Led by Aditya Birla Group and Times of India Group.
Financials: RCB acquired for $1.78 billion.
Leadership Changes: Aryaman Vikram Birla as Chairman and Satyan Gajwani as Vice Chairman.
Inclusion of Teams: Covers both men's and women's IPL and WPL teams.
Regulatory Approval: Acquisition pending clearance from BCCI and other bodies.
New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) A consortium headed by the Aditya Birla Group along with the Times of India Group has successfully acquired the reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), for a staggering USD 1.78 billion (approximately Rs 16,725 crore), as reported on Tuesday.
Joining the consortium are Bolt Ventures and Blackstone's perpetual private equity strategy (BXPE), which collectively secured ownership of RCB, one of the eight original IPL franchises established prior to the inaugural season in 2008, according to a report by Cricbuzz.
This acquisition involves a definitive agreement with United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of Diageo plc from the UK, to obtain a complete 100% stake in RCB, covering both men's and women's teams in the IPL and WPL.
Under the new leadership framework, Aryaman Vikram Birla, a Director at the Aditya Birla Group, will assume the role of Chairman, while Satyan Gajwani from the Times of India Group will be the Vice Chairman. The consortium also includes David Blitzer, the founder of Bolt Ventures, and Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE, as per the report.
This acquisition is pending the usual approvals from regulatory authorities, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the respective governing bodies for IPL and WPL.
RCB was put up for sale by Diageo plc a few months ago, attracting various interested parties, including Adar Poonawalla of the Serum Institute of India.
RCB uniquely holds the distinction of being the first franchise to simultaneously win both the IPL and WPL titles. The men's team clinched their first IPL title in 2025, while the women’s team followed up with their second WPL title in February 2026.
The RCB franchise was initially acquired in a bidding competition by former liquor magnate Vijay Mallya, with a young Virat Kohli as the Icon Player. Diageo plc took control of the RCB franchise through its acquisition of United Spirits from Mallya.
Point of View
The acquisition of RCB signifies a major shift in the landscape of Indian cricket, reflecting the increasing commercial interest in the IPL. This move not only consolidates power among key business players but also presents opportunities for growth and development within the league, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments in sports.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru?
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was acquired by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group and the Times of India Group.
What is the value of the acquisition?
The acquisition was valued at USD 1.78 billion, approximately Rs 16,725 crore.
What teams are included in this acquisition?
The acquisition includes both the men's and women's teams in the IPL and WPL.
Who will lead the new ownership structure?
Aryaman Vikram Birla will serve as Chairman, and Satyan Gajwani will take on the role of Vice Chairman.
Is the acquisition finalized?
The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals from authorities, including the BCCI.
