RCB set for record-breaking $2 billion sale post IPL 2025 title; Adar Poonawalla reportedly eyeing full ownership

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are reportedly heading for a major ownership change just months after clinching their maiden title in the last edition of the tournament, defeating Punjab Kings in the title decider at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

CNBC reported that global liquor giant Diageo has started the process of selling its stake in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

The report further added that Diageo, which owns the Bengaluru-based franchise through United Spirits, is reportedly aiming for a valuation close to $2 billion. Several potential buyers have shown interest, and one of the frontrunners is Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute, which is the world’s largest vaccine maker. However, sources say that the interested parties want to buy 100% of the team, not just a partial stake. To manage the sale, Diageo has brought in global investment bank Citi as the transaction advisor.

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CNBC further stated that the Diageo spokesperson refused to comment on market speculation, and even Adar Poonawalla also declined to address the matter.

This possible change came after another massive deal in the cash-rich league. The Torrent Group recently agreed to buy a 67% majority stake in Gujarat Titans (GT) through its investment arm, Torrent Investments Pvt. Ltd. That deal reportedly valued GT at around ₹7,500 crore, with Irelia Company Pte Ltd (owned by funds advised by CVC Capital) keeping the remaining 33% stake. The deal still awaits final approvals, including one from the BCCI.

Adding to the buzz, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi took to the social media platform X and said:

“There have been a lot of rumours about the sale of an IPL franchise. Well in the past, they have been denied. But it seems the owners have finally decided to take it off their balance sheet and sell it. I am sure having won the IPL last season and with its strong base of fans and great management, it could be the only team available as a whole. One of the big global funds or sovereign funds would desperately like to have them as part of their India strategy. This will definitely set a new record valuation and become the floor price for all IPL teams. I am sure Citi will do a great job auctioning the team.”