Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) recently created history by winning the IPL 2025 title. Following this historic victory, another significant development is emerging: the RCB franchise may be up for sale.
Sports News: After winning the IPL 2025 crown, significant news is circulating regarding the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. United Spirits, the current owner of the team, is reportedly planning to sell RCB. While there is no official confirmation yet, the team's rising brand value and recent championship win are fueling speculation about potential buyers.
If RCB enters the market, several prominent corporate groups might vie for this attractive deal. Let's explore five leading companies that could be frontrunners in the race to acquire RCB.
1. Adani Group – The Strongest Contender
The Adani Group already owns Gujarat Giants in the Women's Premier League (WPL) and Gulf Giants in the UAE's ILT20 league. Their presence extends across various sports, from cricket to kabaddi, kho-kho, and boxing. Given Adani's financial strength and global network, if RCB is put up for sale, the group would likely attempt to acquire the franchise to strengthen its strategic hold.
2. Kotak Group – Learning from Past Setbacks, a New Attempt
When the IPL added two new franchises (Lucknow and Ahmedabad) in 2022, the Kotak Group participated in the bidding but was unsuccessful. Kotak Mahindra Bank is one of India's largest private banks, and if a successful and branded team like RCB becomes available, Kotak would be unlikely to miss this opportunity.
3. Mahindra & Mahindra Limited – Anand Mahindra's Keen Interest in Cricket
Anand Mahindra, the group's chairman, frequently tweets about cricket and inspires players. He has even gifted SUVs to emerging players on several occasions. While his company doesn't currently own a sports team, RCB's brand power and popularity could make this their first major step into the sports business.
4. Capri Global – Already Present in WPL and ILT20
Capri Global, a non-banking finance company, owns the UP Warriorz team in the WPL. Their team, Sharjah Warriors, plays in the ILT20. This group previously attempted to acquire the Gujarat and Lucknow franchises in the IPL. Therefore, if RCB is sold, this company might enter the bidding again with a significant investment.
5. Lancer Capital – The Glazer Family Eyes the IPL
Avram Glazer, co-owner of the prestigious English football club Manchester United and the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, through his firm Lancer Capital, has previously shown interest in purchasing an IPL team. Their team, Desert Vipers, plays in the ILT20, and a prominent name like RCB could be a significant asset for them in penetrating the vast Indian market.
Why is the RCB Brand Value Special?
- Brand image associated with players like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.
- A massive fan base across the country and a huge social media following.
- The tag of the 2025 champion team, elevating the brand's value.
- The women's team (RCB Women) also performed well in the WPL, strengthening the brand.
RCB's potential sale is not only a significant opportunity for investors but could also reshape the IPL's commercial and sports strategies. The arrival of a new owner could completely transform RCB's branding, marketing, and team management style.
