Man United Owners Eye Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The cricketing world is abuzz with reports that one of the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) most iconic franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), is poised for a monumental change in ownership. According to reports from ESPN, the team—led by global cricketing superstar Virat Kohli—has attracted the attention of elite international investors, most notably Avram Glazer, co-owner of the English Premier League giants Manchester United.

A Billion-Dollar Play

The Glazer family’s interest is not confined to Bengaluru alone; reports suggest they are also exploring the acquisition of Rajasthan Royals. Industry insiders estimate that Glazer is prepared to table a bid exceeding $1 billion (approximately £790 million) to secure a foothold in the world’s most lucrative T20 league.

Such a valuation would eclipse the landmark 2021 expansion of the IPL, where the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sold the Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans for a combined sum of roughly £1.1 billion. If successful, this acquisition would signal a significant shift in the sports landscape, marrying the commercial might of European football with the explosive growth of Indian cricket.

The Crown Jewel of IPL Branding

Despite never winning the IPL title until their recent breakthrough, RCB has consistently dominated the financial charts. The franchise currently boasts the highest brand value in the league, outperforming even the record five-time champions, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.

IPL Franchise Valuation Comparison (2025/26 Estimates)

Tragedy Triggers a Sale

The decision by the current owners, the British multinational alcoholic beverage company Diageo, to divest their interest comes in the wake of a local tragedy. During the celebrations for RCB’s maiden IPL title on 4 June, a stampede in Bengaluru resulted in 11 fatalities and over 50 injuries. The Karnataka State Government held the ownership accountable for security lapses, leading to a complex web of legal challenges that have made the franchise’s tenure under Diageo increasingly untenable.

From Mallya to the Glazers

Founded in 2008 by the controversial tycoon Vijay Mallya, the team was initially part of the United Spirits empire. Following Mallya’s financial downfall, Diageo took control of the parent company and, by extension, the team. If Avram Glazer succeeds with his billion-dollar bid, it will mark the third major era of ownership for a team that remains the heart of the IPL’s commercial engine.