Adani Group, Adar Poonawalla among 6 BIG names chasing 2025 IPL champions

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which lifted its first Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, may soon come under new ownership. According to a Cricbuzz report, Diageo, the franchise’s parent company, is currently exploring the possibility of selling its stake in the team. However, the proposed valuation of around US$2 billion (approximately Rs 17,600 billion) has sparked significant debate among potential investors.

Many High-Profile Buyers Show Interest

According to sources, at least six investors want to take over RCB. These include Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla and Parth Jindal of JSW Group, which co-owns Delhi Capitals along with GMR Group, and Adani Group has also shown interest in buying the team.

Poonawalla recently reacted on social media to the news linking him to the franchise: ‘With the right valuation, RCB is a great team.’ The report also states that if the talks progress, it may consider partnering with an American investor.

Notably, Poonawalla has been expanding its investment portfolio of late, including the acquisition of 50% stake in Karan Johar’s film production company Dharma Productions. His family had also considered potential IPL investments more than a decade ago, around 2010.

Adani Group and US-Based Companies Are Among Other Suitors

Besides Poonawalla and Jindal, Adani Group and a Delhi-based industrialist are also reportedly in the mix. Additionally, several US-based private equity firms have also expressed interest but are said to be carefully considering the valuation and financial structure before moving forward.

Diageo’s Decision and Shareholder Pressure

RCB’s parent company, UK-based spirits giant Diageo, is believed to have agreed internally to divest its stake in the franchise. Some company shareholders have reportedly expressed concerns about continuing to fund a sports team and question the long-term returns of the investment.

However, sources warn that the decision is not final and a last-minute change of heart is possible, especially since many domestic investors have not yet clarified their stance.

External Factors Affecting Valuation and Agreement

The final sale price may depend on several variables, the most important of which is the renewal of IPL broadcasting rights that will take place within the next two years.

Adding to the uncertainty is the lasting impact of the June 4 stampede in front of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which raised safety concerns and legal complications. The ongoing litigation has reportedly made some investors wary of potential liabilities. Moreover, the venue lost its rights to host Women’s World Cup matches after the state government refused to clear fixtures, dealing a further blow to its reputation.

Uncertain Future of RCB Ownership

While RCB’s success on the field has made it one of the IPL’s most marketable teams, high valuation and pending legal issues have complicated the sale process. It is not yet known whether Diageo will proceed with a full exit or retain a minority stake.

For now, the Red and Gold’s next big battle may be in the boardrooms, not the cricket field, as investors and shareholders decide the future of one of the league’s most iconic teams.