Adar Poonawalla, owner of the vaccine maker Serum Institute, is reportedly considering the acquisition of the Bengaluru-based Indian Premier League team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Sources indicate that the billionaire is evaluating the potential deal, and discussions are ongoing. However, valuation expectations for RCB are regarded as high, and negotiations are currently in progress. No final decision has been made by Poonawalla regarding the deal.
Among those reportedly evaluating a bid is Poonawalla, who has emerged as a front-runner alongside other suitors. However, prospective buyers are understood to be interested only in acquiring the entire stake and not part of the franchise, according to sources.
As of 2025, Royal Challengers Bangalore have been valued at $269 million, according to Houlihan Lokey’s IPL Brand Valuation Study. RCB ranks as the top team in the league, surpassing the Mumbai Indians ($242 million) and Chennai Super Kings ($235 million). The total brand value of the IPL was assessed at $3.9 billion in 2025, representing a 13.8% increase from 2024, while the overall IPL business is valued at $18.5 billion, showing a 12.9% year-on-year growth.
What did Lalit Modi say?
Former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi tweeted: “There have been numerous rumours about the sale of an @IPL franchise, specifically @RCBTweets. In the past, such claims have been denied, but it appears the owners have finally decided to sell the team. With RCB having recently won the IPL last season, along with its robust fan base, strong management, and team, it stands out as a unique investment opportunity likely to attract interest from major global funds or sovereign funds.
I believe this will set a new record valuation, further highlighting the IPL as the fastest-growing global sports league and the most valuable. The new price set by RCB will establish a new floor price for all teams. Good luck to whoever manages to acquire it. I’m certain that #citibank will effectively handle the auction for prospective buyers.”
Current owner’s statement
United Spirits, which owns RCB through its parent Diageo Plc, declined to comment on the stake sale talks. In a statement to the stock exchanges, the company said it would like to comment on market speculation. The brewer is understood to be seeking a valuation close to $2 billion for the team. Experts say that for Diageo, owning an IPL franchise has become increasingly challenging amid regulatory scrutiny regarding surrogate advertising. A potential sale would allow the company to sidestep regulatory risk while capitalising on record IPL valuations.
RCB, originally owned by Vijay Mallya, came under Diageo’s control in 2016 after its acquisition of United Spirits. The franchise has long been considered one of the league’s most attractive teams, thanks to strong fan loyalty, social media following, and association with marquee players. Industry observers argue that a sale, if pursued, could set a benchmark floor price for future IPL franchise deals.
As of 2025, Royal Challengers Bangalore have been valued at $269 million, according to Houlihan Lokey’s IPL Brand Valuation Study. RCB ranks as the top team in the league, surpassing the Mumbai Indians ($242 million) and Chennai Super Kings ($235 million). The total brand value of the IPL was assessed at $3.9 billion in 2025, representing a 13.8% increase from 2024, while the overall IPL business is valued at $18.5 billion, showing a 12.9% year-on-year growth.
The brand report highlights RCB’s maiden IPL championship in 2025, ending a 17-year title drought, marking one of the league’s most celebrated triumphs. The team successfully balanced continuity and innovation, notably by appointing Rajat Patidar as captain while retaining Virat Kohli as a senior batter and mentor, preserving the wisdom of legacy while empowering new leadership.
The franchise’s success extended beyond the field. Off the field, RCB welcomed tech innovator Nothing as an associate sponsor and enhanced match-day experiences and grassroots initiatives across Karnataka. These community-driven efforts, combined with effective digital marketing and the enduring appeal of global icons, have significantly boosted RCB’s brand equity. The season was also marked by a poignant milestone—Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket on May 12, signalling the end of a legendary career. However, the retirement reinvigorated Kohli’s focus on the IPL, and his marketability remains strong, further fueling fan interest and commercial appeal, according to the report.