Table of Contents
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is one of the most popular franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The team has built a massive fan base over the years thanks to legendary players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and many others. One of the most common questions among cricket fans is, “Who is the owner of RCB?”
The ownership of RCB has changed over time. What started under businessman Vijay Mallya eventually became part of a global corporate group, and in 2026 the franchise entered a new era under a new ownership consortium.
Who Is the Current Owner of RCB?
As of 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru is owned by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group, along with The Times Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. The consortium acquired 100 percent ownership of the franchise from United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of Diageo, in one of the biggest deals in IPL history.
RCB Owner at a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Team | Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| League | Indian Premier League (IPL) |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru |
| Current Owners | Aditya Birla Group-led consortium |
| Previous Owner | United Spirits Limited (Diageo) |
| Original Owner | Vijay Mallya (through United Spirits) |
RCB Ownership History
2008 to 2015: Vijay Mallya Era
RCB was one of the original eight IPL franchises launched in 2008. The team was purchased by Vijay Mallya through United Spirits Limited. During this period, RCB became known for signing some of the biggest names in world cricket, including Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and AB de Villiers.
Although the team reached multiple IPL finals, it could not win the championship during Mallya’s ownership.
Diageo and United Spirits Take Control
After Diageo acquired a controlling stake in United Spirits, RCB came under Diageo’s management. Following Vijay Mallya’s departure from United Spirits, he no longer had any ownership or operational role in the franchise.
Under Diageo and United Spirits, RCB continued to grow into one of the IPL’s most valuable and recognizable brands.
The 2026 Ownership Change
In 2026, United Spirits agreed to sell Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group. The acquisition reportedly valued the franchise at approximately ₹16,700 crore (about $1.78 billion), making it one of the most valuable franchise deals in cricket history.
Why Is RCB So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to RCB’s enormous valuation:
- One of the largest fan bases in the IPL
- Strong global brand recognition
- Home to cricket superstar Virat Kohli for nearly two decades
- Consistently high sponsorship revenue
- Strong digital and social media presence
- Premium commercial partnerships
Famous Players Who Have Represented RCB
Some of the greatest cricketers to wear the RCB jersey include:
- Virat Kohli
- AB de Villiers
- Chris Gayle
- Faf du Plessis
- Glenn Maxwell
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Rajat Patidar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Mohammed Siraj
- Anil Kumble
Major Achievements
- Founded in 2008
- One of the original IPL franchises
- Multiple IPL final appearances
- Massive worldwide fan following
- Among the highest-valued cricket franchises
- Home of one of the IPL’s most loyal fan communities
Interesting Facts About RCB
- RCB’s home matches are played at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
- Virat Kohli has spent his entire IPL career with the franchise.
- The team is known for having one of the strongest fan bases in cricket.
- RCB is consistently among the most-followed IPL teams on social media.
- The franchise has become a global sports brand beyond cricket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns RCB in 2026?
RCB is owned by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group, along with The Times Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone.
Did Vijay Mallya own RCB?
Yes. Vijay Mallya originally owned RCB through United Spirits when the IPL began in 2008.
Does Vijay Mallya still own RCB?
No. Vijay Mallya no longer has any ownership or management role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
What is the home ground of RCB?
RCB plays its home matches at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Why is RCB so popular?
RCB’s popularity comes from its passionate fan base, iconic players, especially Virat Kohli, exciting brand identity, and consistent presence in the IPL spotlight.
Conclusion
Royal Challengers Bengaluru has experienced a remarkable ownership journey since its launch in 2008. From Vijay Mallya’s early investment to years under United Spirits and Diageo, and now the 2026 acquisition by an Aditya Birla Group-led consortium, the franchise has grown into one of the most valuable and recognizable brands in cricket. With strong financial backing, a passionate fan base, and a rich cricketing legacy, RCB remains one of the biggest names in the Indian Premier League.
| Read Also : Mittali Parulkar |
