The 2026 Indian Premier League season is fast approaching, with the ten IPL franchises gearing up for the summer competition. Off the field, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are facing a different kind of battle as they reach the deadline for bids from potential new owners. Currently owned by Diageo via United Spirits, RCB made the decision to hand over operations in 2025, with a deadline of March 31 for bid acceptance. Reports suggest that the race has narrowed down to two parties – Swedish private equity firm EQT and a consortium led by Ranjan Pai, US equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, and global investments company Temasek.
The potential buyers are considering the $2 billion valuation set by Diageo, with the American Glazer family and Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla reportedly maxing out at $1.8 billion in their pursuit. Rajasthan Royals have also initiated the sale process, with Emerging Media led by Manoj Badale looking to sell their stake in the team for around 1.1 billion US dollars. The Aditya Birla Group and the Times Group are among the potential candidates for the purchase. The exclusivity phase will begin on March 31 if both RCB bidders match the valuation, with the process expected to continue into the second half of the year.
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