Vijay Mallya responds to critics after RCB’s record-breaking sale, highlighting the massive growth of his original IPL investment.
Vijay Mallya, the original owner of Royal Challengers Bangalore, has reacted strongly after the franchise was sold for nearly $2 billion (₹18,776 crore), making it one of the biggest deals in cricket history.
The franchise, previously owned by United Spirits Limited, was sold in an all-cash deal worth ₹16,660 crore to a consortium comprising Aditya Birla Group, The Times Group, Blackstone, and Bolt Ventures. According to sources, the overall valuation also factors in a ₹540-crore payout for the Women’s Premier League and a 5% commission to the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
Mallya Hits Back at Critics Over Investment
Reacting to the development on X, Mallya addressed long-standing criticism of his investment in the IPL franchise, which he had purchased for ₹450 crore in 2008.
He wrote, “I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise.”
Reflecting on the early days, he added, “When I bought the franchise in 2008 for ₹450 crore, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project.”
He further explained his vision behind the investment, stating, “Behind my much touted madnesses was building the Royal Challenge brand and hence I named the franchise RCB.”
Mallya also expressed satisfaction over the franchise’s growth in value, noting that it was “immensely gratifying to see my ₹450 crore investment grow to ₹16,500 crore (₹16,660 crore).”
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Emotional Connect With RCB and Ongoing Legal Issues
Despite no longer being associated with the franchise, Mallya emphasized his lasting connection with RCB and its legacy. He remarked that the team will always remain a part of his identity, recalling “indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World”.
He also extended his gratitude to fans, saying he thanked all RCB supporters who stood by the team during his tenure, urging them “to support RCB the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara”.
Meanwhile, India continues its efforts to extradite Mallya from the United Kingdom. He has previously stated his willingness to repay 100% of public money but has accused banks and the government of declining his proposal.
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