Who is the new owner of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the Rajasthan Royals?
The most popular franchise in IPL history, and the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, along with the inaugural IPL champions, Rajasthan Royals, have found new owners. Just three days before the commencement of the 2026 IPL season, RCB was acquired for 166.6 billion (approximately ₹16,660 crore) by a high-profile consortium group, led by the Aditya Birla Group. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Royals have been acquired by a US-based consortium, Kal Somani, for 1.63 billion.
Who is RCB's new owner?
RCB was acquired by a well-known group led by the Aditya Birla Group for 166.6 billion. In addition to the Aditya Birla Group, this consortium includes The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone; together, they have taken full ownership of RCB, encompassing both its IPL and Women's Premier League (WPL) teams.
Following today's Board of Directors meeting, United Spirits Limited (USL) announced in a press release that it has finalized agreements to sell a consortium comprising Aditya Birla Group (ABG), The Times of India Group (Times), Bolt Ventures (Bolt), and Blackstone's perpetual private equity strategy, BXPE (Blackstone), a 100% equity stake in its wholly owned subsidiary Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) for a total consideration of INR 166.6 billion in an all-cash. RCSPL owns and operates the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teams that participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women's Premier League (WPL). Commenting on the transaction, Praveen Someshwar, MD & CEO, USL, said,
"This transaction marks an important milestone for USL as we sharpen focus on our core beverage alcohol business to unlock its true potential with sustained growth, and to continue delivering on long-term value creation for our stakeholders. RCB has grown into the most prominent and commercially successful franchise in the IPL and WPL."
"Guided by its 'Play Bold' philosophy and a strong competitive spirit, it has built a globally recognised brand and a passionate fan base. We are excited about the future of RCB under the new owner's stewardship. As sports enter a new phase of growth in India & globally, we believe this is in the best interest of the franchise and our stakeholders. On behalf of USL, I thank everyone who has contributed to RCB's journey for their continued support - the BCCI, the fans, players and employees," he added.
The Acquiring consortium stated that we are proud to become custodians of RCB and grateful to USL and Diageo for the franchise they have built. RCB's championship-winning culture, its deep connection to Bengaluru, and one of the most passionate fanbases in world sport make this an extraordinary opportunity. We are committed to taking RCB to new heights, on the pitch and beyond.
Who is Kal Somani, the new owner of RR?
Kal Somani is the founder of Academian, IntraEdge, and Truyo.AI. He is backed by Rob Walton, an American billionaire from the Walmart family, and the Hamp family, who own most of the shares in the National Football League (NFL) Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp is a member of the Ford family and a co-owner of the Ford Motor Company.
At the time of the deal, it was the most expensive trade in IPL history, although it was shortly surpassed by the sale of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Reports suggest that RR’s ownership is expected to change after the 2026 Indian Premier League.
