Vijay Mallya Celebrates RCB's Record Sale: From Rs 450 Cr to Rs 16,500 Cr
Synopsis
Vijay Mallya reflects on his journey with RCB as the franchise sells for a staggering Rs 16,660 crore. Discover his thoughts on the investment's tremendous growth and the future of RCB.
Key Takeaways
RCB's sale price is Rs 16,660 crore .
Vijay Mallya's investment grew from Rs 450 crore to Rs 16,500 crore.
The new ownership includes Aryaman Vikram Birla as Chairman.
RCB is the only franchise to hold both IPL and WPL titles.
Memorable moments include selecting Virat Kohli.
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) Vijay Mallya, the former owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), expressed his thoughts on the franchise's unprecedented sale after a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group finalized the acquisition for Rs 16,660 crore. Mallya remarked that it's incredibly rewarding to witness his initial investment of Rs 450 crore balloon significantly over time.
The consortium, which includes Bolt Ventures (Bolt) and Blackstone's perpetual private equity strategy (BXPE), has made RCB the most expensive franchise in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
In a post on X, Mallya stated, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the new RCB owners. I wish them great success with the most prestigious IPL franchise. When I acquired the franchise in 2008 for Rs 450 crores, many dismissed it as a frivolous investment. However, my vision was aimed at establishing the Royal Challenge brand, which is why I chose the name RCB."
He continued, "It is immensely gratifying to see my Rs 450 crore investment escalate to Rs 16,500 crores. RCB will forever be a part of my identity, with unforgettable memories, including the selection of young Virat Kohli, who is now among the world's best players. I am sincerely thankful to all RCB fans who supported us during my tenure and beyond; please continue to cheer for RCB, the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara!"
Under the new management, Aryaman Vikram Birla of the Aditya Birla Group will take on the role of Chairman, while Satyan Gajwani from Times Internet Limited will serve as Vice Chairman. The consortium also features David Blitzer, founder of Bolt Ventures, and Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE.
RCB is distinguished as the first and only franchise to simultaneously hold both IPL and WPL titles. The men's team clinched their inaugural IPL title in 2025, while the women's team achieved their second WPL title in February 2026.
Point of View
Vijay Mallya's journey with RCB offers a compelling narrative of ambition and investment foresight. His reflections on the franchise’s sale encapsulate not just financial growth, but a legacy intertwined with India's cricketing culture. The transition to new ownership marks a significant turning point for RCB, as it aims to harness the momentum in the IPL.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who acquired the Royal Challengers Bengaluru?
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru were acquired by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group for Rs 16,660 crore.
What was Vijay Mallya's original investment in RCB?
Vijay Mallya originally invested Rs 450 crore when he purchased the franchise in 2008.
What positions will the new owners hold?
Aryaman Vikram Birla will become Chairman, and Satyan Gajwani will serve as Vice Chairman of RCB under the new ownership.
What titles does RCB currently hold?
RCB is the first franchise to hold both the IPL and WPL titles simultaneously.
When did RCB win their IPL title?
RCB won their inaugural IPL title in 2025.
