In a surprising turn of events just days after Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025, reports suggest that Diageo, the current majority stakeholder in the franchise, is actively exploring options to sell its stake in the team. The development comes as a shock to fans who were still basking in the glow of the team’s long-awaited triumph.
From Champions to Change?
RCB’s 2025 season was nothing short of a fairytale. After years of near-misses, heartbreaks, and fan frustration, the Virat Kohli-backed team finally lifted the IPL trophy, ending their 17-year title drought. The emotional victory was hailed across the cricketing world — but now, all eyes are shifting from the pitch to the boardroom.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Diageo — the global alcoholic beverages giant that owns a controlling stake in RCB — is weighing strategic options, including a partial or full sale of its share in the franchise.
Why Sell Now?
The timing of the potential stake sale is as intriguing as it is strategic.
1. Maximum Market Value:
RCB’s brand value has soared after the title win. As one of the most passionately followed franchises, a championship title adds a lucrative premium. Selling now could fetch Diageo top dollar for its investment.
2. Focus Shift:
Insiders suggest Diageo may be refocusing on its core beverage business and is considering streamlining its sports portfolio.
3. Investor Interest:
Several big names in the sports and entertainment world are reportedly eyeing a piece of IPL action. The post-win hype makes RCB an even more attractive asset for potential buyers.
Who Might Buy?
While no official buyer has been confirmed, the rumor mill is churning.
- Indian conglomerates with interests in sports, like Adani Group or RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, are speculated as potential suitors.
- International sports investment firms are also said to be monitoring the situation closely.
If Diageo moves forward with the deal, RCB could become one of the most expensive franchises ever sold in IPL history.
Fan Reactions
For RCB’s fiercely loyal fan base, the news is bittersweet.
Many took to social media expressing concern over what a change in ownership could mean. “We waited for years to see this team win. Now they might be sold? Feels surreal,” tweeted one fan.
Others are hopeful that fresh ownership could bring in new energy, resources, and long-term vision for the team.
📊 RCB’s Financial Power
RCB is not just a cricket team — it’s a powerhouse brand.
- With a massive online following, high-profile players like Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, and now an IPL trophy, the team has never been more valuable.
- Industry analysts estimate RCB’s valuation could now exceed $250 million — making it one of the most sought-after properties in global franchise cricket.
🏁 What’s Next?
Neither Diageo nor RCB has issued an official statement yet. But with the IPL off-season heating up with transfer talks and auction strategies, a possible ownership shake-up could dominate headlines in the coming weeks.
If Diageo does sell, it will mark the end of an era for a company that stood by the team through ups and downs. But for RCB, it could also be the beginning of a bold new chapter — one that may take the franchise to even greater heights.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 3:03 pm by Muthangi Anil Kumar | Published by: Muthangi Anil Kumar on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 3:03 pm | News Categories: News
About The Author
