Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the current Indian Premier League (IPL) champions and former winners of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), are up for sale as parent company Diageo has initiated a strategic review to divest its ownership in the franchise. The review process, expected to conclude by March 31, 2026, could see RCB under new ownership.
Diageo’s Managing Director & CEO of United Spirits, Praveen Someshwar, stated that while RCSPL has been a valuable asset, it is non-core to their alcobev business. Speculation about a potential sale arose after a stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s victory parade in June, following their IPL title win.
Despite initial denials, Diageo’s financial challenges have influenced the decision to sell. The change in ownership is not expected to impact the upcoming IPL and WPL auctions, with prospective owners needing clearance from the IPL. The WPL is set to begin in January, and the IPL in March 2026.
Overall, RCB’s sale marks a significant development in the cricketing world, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of the strategic review and the potential implications for the team’s future.
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