Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), one of the most valuable and popular franchises in the Indian Premier League, could soon witness a major ownership change.
Reports suggest that Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer, through his investment firm Lancer Capital, has emerged as one of the leading contenders in the bidding race to acquire RCB, submitting an offer believed to be close to $1.8 billion (around ₹16,300 crore).
The development comes at a time when RCB’s valuation is at an all-time high. The franchise recently won its maiden IPL title in 2025, ending years of near misses, while also enjoying success in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Industry experts believe the timing of the sale is strategic, with current owners Diageo initiating a “strategic review” of their investment shortly after the title triumph.
Strong Competition in the Bidding Process
At least eight investors have been shortlisted for RCB, while five bidders remain in contention for Rajasthan Royals (RR). The estimated bid values for both franchises are expected to rival or even surpass the combined ₹12,715 crore paid for the Lucknow and Ahmedabad franchises in 2021.
Apart from Lancer Capital, prominent names linked with the RCB bidding process include Adar Poonawalla, the Manipal Group, Times Group, Premji Invest, and several private equity firms. Most bidders are reportedly exploring consortium-based offers to strengthen their financial position.
Why RCB Is a Prime Asset
RCB’s appeal extends far beyond on-field success. The Bengaluru-based franchise boasts:
- One of the largest fanbases in IPL history
- Strong sponsorship and global brand value
- Successful men’s and women’s teams
- Massive commercial upside post-title win
These factors have pushed RCB into the elite bracket of global sports franchises, making it a highly attractive acquisition.
What Happens Next
The bids submitted so far are understood to be non-binding, with shortlisted parties expected to move into the next phase involving technical eligibility checks and formal negotiations.
While Diageo will retain the final decision on the sale, any ownership transfer will require BCCI approval, which is entitled to a 5% share of the final deal value under IPL regulations.
If the Glazer family’s bid is successful, it would mark one of the most significant cross-sport ownership deals, bringing a Premier League powerhouse into the IPL ecosystem.
With valuations soaring and competition intense, the RCB ownership race is shaping up to be one of the biggest business stories in modern cricket.
