Aditya Birla-Led Consortium Acquires RCB in $1.78 Billion Deal

Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone’s BXPE has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% ownership of RCB

A consortium comprising the Aditya Birla Group (ABG), The Times of India Group (ToI), Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone’s perpetual private equity strategy (BXPE) has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a landmark transaction valued at USD 1.78 billion (approximately INR 16,706 crore).

Sources have confirmed that the group has signed the agreement with United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of UK-based Diageo plc, to purchase a 100 percent stake in the franchise. The acquisition includes ownership of both the men’s IPL team and the women’s WPL team.
New Leadership Structure Announced

Under the newly formed ownership framework, Aryaman Vikram Birla, Director at the Aditya Birla Group, will assume the role of Chairman, while Satyan Gajwani of the Times of India Group will serve as Vice Chairman. The consortium also brings together global sports investor David Blitzer, founder of Bolt Ventures, and Viral Patel, CEO of BXPE.

The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including approvals from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Competition Commission of India (CCI), and other relevant regulatory authorities.

Commenting on the acquisition, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, highlighted the IPL’s transformation into a global sporting powerhouse over the past two decades. He noted that RCB represents a unique opportunity for the conglomerate to extend its long-standing tradition of institution-building into the global sports ecosystem while preserving the franchise’s legacy.

Satyan Gajwani emphasized RCB’s stature as one of the most popular brands in the IPL, stating that the new ownership aims to grow the franchise into a global sporting institution while maintaining strong ties with Bengaluru, Karnataka, and its passionate fanbase.

He added that the consortium remains committed to supporting the players, coaching staff, leadership, and supporters who have shaped the team’s championship culture.