Following the record-breaking sale of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), former owner Vijay Mallya expressed his reaction to the franchise’s new chapter, calling it a deeply gratifying moment.
RCB was recently acquired by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group and Times Internet Limited for a massive ₹16,600 crore, making it the most valuable franchise in the history of the Indian Premier League. The consortium also includes Bolt Ventures and Blackstone’s BXPE.
Reacting to the development, Mallya took to X and reflected on his early investment in the franchise.
“I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise. When I bought the franchise in 2008 for Rs 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project. Behind my much-touted madness was building the Royal Challenge brand and hence I named the franchise RCB,” he wrote.
Also Read: RCB sold to Aditya Birla & Times Internet Consortium for ₹16,660 crore
He further highlighted the remarkable growth in valuation over the years.
“Immensely gratifying to see my Rs 450 crore investment grow to Rs 16,500 crores. RCB will always remain a part of my DNA with indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World. To all RCB fans who came on board during my stewardship and beyond, a grateful thank you and please continue to support RCB the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara,” Mallya added, thanking fans for their continued support.
I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise. When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project. Behind my…
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) March 26, 2026
Mallya had originally acquired the franchise in 2008 through United Spirits Limited. However, he stepped down from his roles in 2016 following a deal with UK-based Diageo plc, which had taken control of United Spirits. He resigned as chairman of United Spirits on February 25, 2016, and shortly after relinquished his position with Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited.
Following the record ₹16,600 crore sale of #RCB, former owner #VijayMallya called the franchise’s new chapter a “deeply gratifying” moment. The team was acquired by a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group and Times Internet Limited, becoming the most valuable #IPL franchise… pic.twitter.com/SgAmkg30Lo
— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) March 26, 2026
Under the new ownership structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla will take over as chairman, while Satyan Gajwani will serve as vice chairman. The leadership group also includes David Blitzer of Bolt Ventures and Viral Patel of BXPE.
Also Read: Who is Aryaman Birla? Ex-Cricketer to lead RCB after record-breaking sale
RCB’s rise in valuation has also coincided with its on-field success. The franchise is currently the only team to hold both the IPL and Women’s Premier League titles simultaneously, with the men’s team winning their maiden IPL crown in 2025 and the women’s side clinching their second WPL title in 2026.