Billionaire Adar Poonawalla, the chief executive officer of Serum Institute of India, is likely to acquire the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise. The negotiations are ongoing, with multiple bidders expressing interest. The Bengaluru-based IPL team is seeking a one-time payment for the franchise. Poonawalla’s interest in RCB aligns with his diversification plans. RCB is currently owned by United Spirits Limited, a Diageo Group company, who in June was exploring options for the ownership of RCB.
The British multinational alcoholic beverage company is looking for around $2 billion in RCB’s valuation, according to media reports.
It is, however, not yet clear if Diageo Plc is looking to sell its complete stake in RCB.
“Adar Poonawalla is the front runner for acquiring RCB among other interested parties,” said sources close to the development.
Even in terms of business value, RCB was in the top position this year, Houlihan Lokey noted in its IPL Valuation Study 2025 report.
“RCB’s success extended beyond the boundary. Off the field, the franchise welcomed tech innovator Nothing as an associate sponsor and scaled up match-day experiences and grassroots initiatives across Karnataka. These community-driven efforts, coupled with savvy digital marketing and the enduring appeal of global icons, have turbocharged RCB’s brand equity,” Houlihan Lokey stated in its IPL Valuation Study 2025 report.
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