The company is selling 100 per cent equity stake held in its wholly owned subsidiary Royal Challengers Sports or RCSPL to a consortium
Shares of United Spirits fell about 1.50 per cent as of 10:53 AM on Wednesday to trade at Rs 1,308.1 apiece after the company notified a major strategic divestment. The company has sold its entire stake in Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
The company has entered into definitive agreements for the sale of the 100 per cent equity stake held in its wholly owned subsidiary Royal Challengers Sports or RCSPL to a consortium comprising Aditya Birla Group (ABG), The Times of India Group (Times), Bolt Ventures (Bolt) and Blackstone’s perpetual private equity strategy, BXPE for a total consideration of Rs 166.6 billion in an all cash transaction.
RCSPL owns and operates RCB franchises that participate in the IPL and Women’s Premier League (WPL). Upon completion of this transaction, the consortium will, through its ownership of RCSPL, acquire the rights to own and operate the IPL and WPL franchise.
““This transaction marks an important milestone for USL as we sharpen focus on our core beverage alcohol business to unlock its true potential with sustained growth, and to continue delivering on long-term value creation for our stakeholders. RCB has grown into the most prominent and commercially successful franchise in the IPL and WPL. Guided by its ‘Play Bold’ philosophy and a strong competitive spirit, it has built a globally recognised brand and a passionate fan base,” stated Praveen Someshwar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), United Spirits.
This development concludes the strategic review of RCSPL that was initiated by USL, as notified on 05 November 2025. The transaction is subject to satisfactory completion of customary closing conditions and legal, regulatory and other approvals, including from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India.
“We are proud to become custodians of RCB and grateful to USL and Diageo for the franchise they have built. RCB’s championship-winning culture, its deep connection to Bengaluru, and one of the most passionate fanbases in world sport make this an extraordinary opportunity. We are committed to taking RCB to new heights, on the pitch and beyond,” the acquiring consortium stated.
