IPL 2025 Champions RCB Up For Sale? Diageo Considers Promoting Bengaluru Franchise For $2 Billion – Reviews
British liquor large Diageo is contemplating a sale of its stake in IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), in response to folks acquainted with the matter. The corporate may promote half and even all of its possession within the workforce and should worth the franchise at as much as $2 billion.
Talks in Early Levels
Diageo, which owns RCB via its Indian arm United Spirits Ltd., has reportedly held discussions with potential advisers. To this point, no remaining determination has been made. Sources say the corporate may nonetheless determine to carry on to the workforce.
A Diageo spokesperson declined to remark, and United Spirits has not but responded to media queries.
Well being Ministry Strain on Alcohol Promotions
The timing of this potential sale is vital. India’s well being ministry is pushing for a ban on the promotion of alcohol and tobacco manufacturers within the IPL. This consists of stopping oblique promotions via soda or different merchandise utilizing cricketers. Whereas direct liquor advertisements are already banned in India, corporations like Diageo have nonetheless been promoting non-alcoholic variations or mixers that includes prime sports activities stars.
RCB’s Journey from Mallya to Diageo
RCB is likely one of the founding groups of the IPL. It was initially owned by businessman Vijay Mallya, whose Kingfisher Airways went bankrupt in 2012. Diageo took over possession after shopping for Mallya’s liquor enterprise. This yr, RCB lastly received their maiden IPL title, including to their business worth. The workforce’s largest star, Virat Kohli, has a large international fan following and is a significant face of the franchise.
IPL Groups Are Now Scorching Property
The worth of IPL franchises has surged lately. IPL is now one of many fastest-growing sports activities leagues on the planet, drawing comparisons with the NFL and the English Premier League when it comes to income and viewership.
With IPL matches attracting tons of of thousands and thousands of viewers, proudly owning a workforce has change into a high-demand funding. A sale of RCB may set a brand new benchmark for franchise valuations.
Diageo’s International Technique
Within the US Diageo’s largest market gross sales of premium liquor have been hit by tariffs and a client slowdown. Promoting RCB may assist the corporate increase capital because it seems to be to deal with its core enterprise and streamline international operations.
For now, RCB followers don’t want to fret in regards to the workforce’s future on the sphere. However behind the scenes, Diageo’s determination may result in new possession and a recent route for one in every of IPL’s most adopted franchises. If the sale occurs, it will be one of many largest offers in Indian sports activities historical past.
