Adar Poonawalla and RCB: The ownership saga of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has taken a fresh twist after Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla publicly hinted at interest in acquiring the IPL franchise.
According to reports from CNBC-TV18, Poonawalla has already initiated talks with Diageo Plc, the current owners of RCB through United Spirits. The British multinational is reportedly seeking a valuation of around USD 2 billion for the franchise.
Adding fuel to the fire, Poonawalla posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“At the right valuation, @RCBTweets is a great team.”
This remark has sent social media buzzing, raising speculation that RCB’s owners may indeed be considering selling the team.
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RCB – The Most Valuable IPL Franchise
A recent Houlihan Lokey IPL Valuation Study 2025 named RCB as the most valuable franchise this year, not only for its cricketing brand but also in terms of business worth. With a strong fan base and a maiden IPL title win earlier this year, RCB’s stock value is at an all-time high.
Lalit Modi’s Take
Former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi also weighed in, suggesting that RCB’s owners are ready to take the franchise “off their balance sheet” and sell it as a whole.
“It could be the only team available in its entirety as an IPL franchise. Having won the title last season, with a loyal fan base and strong management, it’s a prized asset,” Modi said on X.
He even shared articles linking Poonawalla to the potential buyout, further intensifying rumours.
The Uncertain Road Ahead
As of now, Citi Investment Bank has been appointed as the transaction advisor for the potential deal. However, Diageo has refused to confirm or deny the reports, stating:
“We don’t comment on market speculation.”
Earlier this year, RCB lifted their first-ever IPL trophy, defeating Punjab Kings in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The celebrations in Bengaluru turned tragic when a stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives.
Whether Poonawalla’s hint translates into a concrete takeover bid remains to be seen, but with global investors circling and RCB’s valuation soaring, the franchise’s future ownership could be heading for a dramatic shake-up.
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