Few teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have as loyal and passionate a fanbase as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). With superstars, thrilling matches, and fervent supporters, RCB consistently captures the limelight.
The Bangalore-based franchise has been part of the IPL since 2008, yet the trophy has eluded them. Despite this, RCB has built a massive and dedicated following that stands by the team through every high and low.
A major factor behind RCB’s staying power is its ownership. United Spirits Limited (USL) has backed the team for years, helping RCB evolve into one of the most valuable franchises in the league.
Here’s a closer look at the owners behind Royal Challengers Bangalore who manage the franchise from behind the scenes.
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Who is the Owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru?
Former owner of RCB Vijay Mallya with Virat Kohli & Chris Gayle
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is owned by United Spirits Limited (USL), India’s largest alcoholic beverage company. USL is behind some of the world’s most popular brands, including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Black & White. Interestingly, RCB’s name is derived from USL’s brand, Royal Challenge.
Based in Bengaluru, USL is a natural fit for the team. The company is also part of Diageo, a global leader in the alcohol industry. With such a strong and professional backing, RCB has always enjoyed a stable foundation and the resources needed to compete at the highest level.
RCB Owner Share Percentage
At the helm of United Spirits Limited (USL) are Mahendra Kumar Sharma, the Chairman, and Anand Kripalu, the MD and CEO. Both play a pivotal role in ensuring that RCB is managed efficiently and professionally.
Additionally, Diageo, USL’s global parent company, brings an international perspective to the franchise’s operations. Their expertise helps RCB stay organized, focused, and consistently competitive, ensuring that the team’s management runs like clockwork.
RCB’s Ownership History
RCB’s ownership journey has seen its fair share of twists:
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2008: RCB was bought by Vijay Mallya, the Kingfisher Airlines boss, for $111.6 million, the second-highest bid in the inaugural IPL auction. Mallya was a constant presence at matches, actively supporting the team.
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2015: Diageo India took control of United Spirits Limited (USL), and with it, RCB.
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2016: Due to Vijay Mallya’s legal troubles, he stepped away, making USL the sole owner of the franchise.
Since then, ownership has been stable, with USL focusing on cricket operations and business growth, providing the franchise with a strong and professional backing.
RCB Owner’s Net Worth
The RCB franchise has an estimated brand value of $117 million (≈ ₹1,013.17 crore). A major factor behind this is Virat Kohli, the bonafide face of both the team and the IPL, who has been associated with RCB since its inception.
United Spirits Limited (USL) Net Worth
A subsidiary of Diageo, United Spirits Limited (USL) is an Indian alcoholic beverages company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is the world’s second-largest spirits company by volume. In the fiscal year 2024, USL’s net worth was estimated at ₹7,121 crore, marking an 18.7% increase from ₹5,999 crore in 2023.
This strong financial backing ensures that RCB remains a competitive and professionally managed franchise in the IPL.
RCB Owner’s Controversies
RCB’s past hasn’t been entirely smooth. During Vijay Mallya’s tenure, the team was often linked to his personal controversies. In 2016, Mallya faced legal trouble over unpaid loans, which ultimately forced him to step away from United Spirits Limited (USL) and RCB.
Since USL assumed full control, the franchise has enjoyed a drama-free period, with the team’s focus firmly on cricketing performance and fan engagement.
Other Teams owned by RCB’s Owners: Business Ventures and Affiliations
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) enjoys strong backing from some of the biggest brands, helping the team stay financially robust and immensely popular with fans.
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Top Sponsors: Qatar Airways, Happilo, KEI Wires and Cables, Jio, Hindware Homes
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Other Prominent Partners: PUMA, boAt, Nippon Paint, Bira 91, DNA Networks
These partnerships do more than provide financial support—they enhance RCB’s brand value. Sponsors like PUMA and boAt also release exclusive RCB merchandise, which fans eagerly collect.
RCB has also expanded into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with their team, Royal Challengers Bangalore Women (RCB-W), further strengthening the franchise’s presence in Indian cricket.
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FAQs: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Owners
Q.1. Who owns Royal Challengers Bangalore?
Answer: RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited, which is part of Diageo.
Q.2. Who are the key figures in the team’s ownership?
Answer: Mahendra Kumar Sharma (Chairman) and Anand Kripalu (MD & CEO) are the main people behind RCB’s ownership.
Q.3. What controversies has the ownership faced, if any?
Answer: RCB had some issues when Vijay Mallya was involved, but since United Spirits took over, things have been smooth.
Q.4. What other ventures are associated with the team’s owners?
Answer: United Spirits produces top alcohol brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Royal Challenge, and also imports other global brands under Diageo.
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