Birla, Blitzer, Blackstone, and Times of India Group acquire IPL's RCB for $1.78 billion

March 24: A consortium including Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru for $1.78 billion, ending a weeks-long bidding war.

United Spirits, the Indian arm of Diageo, sold the franchise, calling it 'non-core.' The deal attracted global private equity firms and Indian tycoons.

The IPL, the world's richest cricket league, has seen rising revenues and broadcast rights valued at over $6 billion. The acquisition includes both men's and women's franchises.

RCB won its first men's title in 2025 and reported $56 million in revenue for 2024-25, up 73% over three years.

Aditya Birla Group Director Aryaman Vikram Birla will serve as chairman, with Satyan Gajwani of Times of India Group as vice chairman.