Days after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy in 2025, rumours swirled about a possible sale of the franchise. However, both Diageo India—the team’s current owner—and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have denied any involvement in a potential ownership change.

RCB Sale Reports Surface After Historic Win

A report had suggested that Diageo Plc, the UK-based parent company of United Spirits Limited (USL), which owns RCB, was considering either selling a stake or fully exiting the franchise. The speculated valuation of the deal was pegged at a staggering $2 billion (approximately ₹16,834 crore).

The rumour gained further traction after Bloomberg reported that DK Shivakumar was interested in acquiring a stake in the franchise. Following the publication, United Spirits’ stock rose by 3.3% on June 10, 2025.

Diageo Responds to Market Speculation

Diageo India responded swiftly, issuing a clarification to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), categorically denying the reports. “The company wishes to inform you that the aforesaid media reports are speculative in nature, and it is not pursuing any such discussion,” said company secretary Mital Sanghvi in an official communication to BSE. The letter was prompted by the stock exchange’s inquiry into the sudden surge in United Spirits’ share price.

DK Shivakumar Dismisses Ownership Speculation

In an interview with ANI, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar rejected claims of any involvement with RCB. “I am not an insane person,” he said candidly. “Since childhood, I’ve been a member of the Karnataka Cricket Association; that’s it. I don’t need RCB, nor do I drink Royal Challenge,” he added, clarifying his position.

RCB’s Ownership Journey: From Mallya to Diageo

RCB’s ownership history traces back to the franchise’s inception in 2008, when businessman Vijay Mallya purchased the team for $111.6 million through United Spirits Limited. Financial constraints led to Mallya stepping down from active ownership by 2016. Diageo, having acquired a controlling stake in USL, subsequently became the full owner of the franchise.

RCB’s current valuation is estimated to be around $140 million (₹1,216 crore) in 2025, boosted significantly by their large fan base and their recent IPL championship.

Advertising Regulations and Tragedy Add to Confusion

The timing of the sale rumours coincided with India’s Union Health Ministry calling for a ban on alcohol and tobacco-related brand promotions during IPL. While Diageo has only promoted non-alcoholic products like soda through RCB branding, concerns remain about the government’s push for stricter regulation.

Additionally, public sentiment was further affected by a tragic incident during RCB’s victory parade at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025, where 11 fans lost their lives in a stampede. The tragedy sparked outrage over safety measures at public events, indirectly fueling speculation around a possible sale.

RCB Focuses on Future Amid Rumours

Despite the swirling speculation, Diageo India’s and DK Shivakumar’s firm denials have put an end to the rumours—for now. The franchise appears focused on leveraging its IPL 2025 victory both commercially and culturally, with a stable corporate structure and continued belief in its long-term sporting project.

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