Introduction
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), one of the most popular franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has captured the hearts of millions with its star-studded lineups and thrilling performances. Based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, RCB was founded in 2008 and plays its home matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The team, known for its passionate fan base and iconic players like Virat Kohli, finally clinched its maiden IPL title in 2025 after 18 years and three prior final losses. This article delves into the ownership details of RCB, its history, key figures, controversies, and the franchise’s brand value as of 2025.
Current Ownership: United Spirits Limited (USL) and Diageo
As of 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru is owned by United Spirits Limited (USL), India’s largest alcoholic beverage company and a subsidiary of Diageo, a British multinational beverage giant. USL, headquartered in Bengaluru, is the world’s second-largest spirits company by volume, producing renowned brands such as McDowell’s No.1, Royal Challenge, and Signature. The team’s name, “Royal Challengers,” is derived from USL’s popular whisky brand, Royal Challenge. Diageo, which acquired a majority stake in USL in 2014, provides significant financial and corporate backing, ensuring RCB’s stability and global reach. In 2023, USL established Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) to manage RCB’s operations, branding, and expansion into ventures like the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and esports.
Key Figures in Ownership
- Hina Nagarajan: The CEO and Managing Director of Diageo India, Nagarajan oversees USL’s operations, including its ownership of RCB. With a net worth exceeding ₹8,500 crore, her leadership has been instrumental in steering Diageo India and, by extension, RCB’s strategic direction.
- Prathmesh Mishra: As the Chief Commercial Officer of Diageo India and Chairman of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited, Mishra plays a pivotal role in RCB’s business operations and brand management. His experience in promoting USL’s brands, such as Scotch whisky, has strengthened RCB’s commercial footprint.
- Mahendra Kumar Sharma: The Chairman of USL, Sharma is another key figure in the corporate setup, ensuring smooth management of RCB’s operations under Diageo’s global umbrella.
Ownership History
RCB’s ownership journey began in 2008 when Vijay Mallya, then chairman of United Spirits and Kingfisher Airlines, purchased the franchise for $111.6 million, making it the second-most expensive team in the inaugural IPL auction. Mallya was the public face of RCB, heavily promoting the team through USL brands like Royal Challenge and Kingfisher. However, his tenure was marred by financial controversies, including unpaid loans, which led to his resignation from USL in 2016. Following Mallya’s departure, Diageo, which had begun acquiring a stake in USL in 2013, gained full control of the company and, consequently, RCB. This transition marked a shift from individual ownership to a corporate model, ensuring professional management and financial stability.
Brand Value and Financials
RCB’s brand value has soared over the years, driven by its massive fan base, star players, and strong digital presence. As of 2024, the franchise was valued at $117 million, with estimates suggesting it reached $269 million in 2025 after their IPL title win, making RCB one of the most valuable IPL franchises. The team generates revenue through broadcasting rights, ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships from brands like Muthoot Fincorp, Myntra, and Wrogn. USL’s parent company, Diageo, reported a net worth of ₹7,121 crore for USL in 2024, reflecting an 18.7% increase from the previous year. RCB’s success, particularly its 2025 IPL title, has significantly boosted its commercial strength.
Controversies
RCB’s ownership has not been without challenges. During Vijay Mallya’s tenure, the team was linked to his financial and legal troubles, which drew public scrutiny. In 2016, Mallya was declared a willful defaulter by Indian banks and relocated to the UK, leading to his exit from USL and RCB. Additionally, in 2025, RCB faced controversy following a stampede during their IPL victory celebrations at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which resulted in 11 deaths. The franchise was criticized for proceeding without necessary regulatory permissions, leading to the arrest of RCB official Nikhil Sosale and others. The Karnataka High Court granted interim bail to Sosale, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) formed a committee to prevent such incidents in the future.
RCB’s Ventures Beyond IPL
Under USL and Diageo’s ownership, RCB has expanded beyond the IPL. The franchise owns the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women’s team in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), which won the title in 2024, marking the franchise’s first major trophy. Coached by Luke Williams and captained by Smriti Mandhana, the WPL team has further elevated RCB’s brand. Additionally, RCB has ventured into esports, leveraging its corporate backing to diversify its portfolio. The franchise’s social media presence is unmatched, with over 21 million Instagram followers, making it the most-followed cricket franchise on the platform.
Conclusion
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s ownership by United Spirits Limited, under the umbrella of Diageo, has transformed the franchise into a global cricketing powerhouse. From its origins under Vijay Mallya’s flamboyant leadership to its current corporate stability, RCB’s journey reflects resilience and growth. With key figures like Hina Nagarajan, Prathmesh Mishra, and Mahendra Kumar Sharma steering the ship, RCB continues to thrive both on and off the field. The 2025 IPL title win has cemented RCB’s legacy, and with strong financial backing and a loyal fan base, the franchise is poised for even greater success in the future.
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