Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is officially up for sale. Diageo, the owner of both the IPL and WPL RCB teams, has initiated the sale process and aims to complete it by March 31, 2026, as reported by Cricbuzz
The news signals the start of a new chapter for one of Indian cricket's most storied franchises. The announcement was made through a statement to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in which Diageo characterised the development as part of a long-term "strategic review" of its interests in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RCSPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of United Spirits Ltd (USL), Diageo's Indian business.
The notice confirmed that RCSPL, which holds the rights to both the RCB men's IPL and RCB women's WPL teams, was under review, and the sale process is expected to be finalised before the start of the IPL season 2026.
The statement noted, “USL is initiating a strategic review of the investment in its wholly owned subsidiary, RCSPL. RCSPL’s business comprises ownership of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise team that participates in the men’s Indian Premier League (IPL) and Women’s Premier League (WPL) tournaments hosted by the BCCI annually.”
The company further clarified that the sale process is expected to conclude by March 31, 2026.
Praveen Someswar, Managing Director and CEO of USL, said, “RCSPL has been a valuable and strategic asset for USL. However, it is non-core to our alcoholic beverage business. This step reinforces USL’s and Diageo’s commitment to reviewing their India portfolio to sustain long-term value creation for stakeholders, while ensuring RCSPL’s best interests.”
