Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have finally won their first-ever IPL title, ending an 18-year-long wait. While the team’s victory has made headlines, many fans are still curious about who actually owns the RCB franchise and how much the ownership is worth. (News18 Tamil)
RCB, a part of the IPL since its launch in 2008, secured the championship after reaching the finals for the fourth time. The win not only fulfilled a long-cherished dream for star player Virat Kohli but also brought the team Rs 20 crore in prize money along with the IPL trophy. (PTI Photo)
Unlike teams with well-known celebrity owners, like Nita Ambani (Mumbai Indians), Shah Rukh Khan (Kolkata Knight Riders), and Preity Zinta (Punjab Kings), RCB’s ownership remains relatively low profile. (News18 Tamil)
RCB was originally bought by businessman Vijay Mallya in 2008 for $111 million, making it one of the costliest franchises at the time. However, due to mounting debts and legal troubles, Mallya lost control of the team in 2016. (AFP/File)
Since then, the ownership of RCB has rested with United Spirits Limited (USL), a major player in India’s alcoholic beverage market and the second-largest liquor company in the world. USL is a subsidiary of Diageo, the global alcoholic drinks giant headquartered in London. (News18 Tamil)
At the helm of United Spirits is Hina Nagarajan, who currently serves as the company’s CEO and Managing Director. Under her leadership, USL has continued to maintain RCB as one of its flagship sports investments. (PTI Photo)
As of the latest financial reports, United Spirits boasts a net worth of approximately $11.95 billion, making it one of the most financially powerful entities in the IPL ecosystem. (PTI Photo)
Though less flamboyant in public appearances compared to some of the celebrity owners, United Spirits’ strategic ownership has helped RCB remain one of the league’s most valuable and marketable franchises, culminating now in a long-awaited championship that fans and players alike will never forget. (News18 Tamil)
