Even as Diageo India anticipates strong buyer interest for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, one of IPL's most valuable franchises, the path forward appears riddled with significant challenges. The team's home ground, Chinnaswamy Stadium, finds itself entangled in multiple controversies and is set to be excluded from hosting matches in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup.
Stadium Troubles and International Snubs
Chinnaswamy Stadium's problems have been mounting steadily. The venue has been overlooked for the prestigious 2026 T20 World Cup, according to insider information. This development comes months after the stadium missed out on hosting Maharaja Trophy matches and Women's ODI World Cup games earlier.
While the International Cricket Council hasn't officially announced the venue list for the T20 World Cup, sources indicate that Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad have been shortlisted for the multi-nation event scheduled for early next year.
The Tragic Stampede and Political Fallout
The franchise's troubles escalated dramatically following a devastating incident on June 4, when a stampede outside the stadium resulted in 11 fatalities and multiple injuries. This tragic event occurred during celebrations of RCB's maiden Indian Premier League title victory last season.
The incident sparked a major political storm in Karnataka, with state leaders engaging in heated exchanges. The aftermath has been severe, with high-profile cricket staying away from Bengaluru since the tragedy. The political pressure has forced RCB's parent company to consider selling the franchise.
Strategic Review and Potential Buyers
In a formal communication to the Bombay Stock Exchange on November 5, Diageo India announced a "Strategic Review of the Investment in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt. Ltd. (RCSPL)". The Indian subsidiary described RCSPL as a wholly owned company of United Spirits Ltd., which in turn is Diageo's Indian subsidiary.
The company disclosure stated: "USL is initiating a strategic review of the investment in its wholly owned subsidiary, RCSPL. RCSPL's business comprises ownership of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise teams that participate in the men's Indian Premier League and Women's Premier League cricket tournaments."
Although the strategic review is expected to conclude by the end of the current financial year, sources suggest RCB might push for an immediate sale. The Board of Control for Cricket in India is likely to take necessary steps in the coming week, and bankers have reportedly been informed about the development.
Several prominent business groups have emerged as potential buyers:
- JSW Group
- Adar Poonawalla of Serum Institute of India
- Manipal Hospitals
While Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath's name was initially linked to the potential acquisition, sources indicate he may not be directly involved in the bidding process at this stage.
The combination of stadium issues, international tournament exclusions, and the aftermath of the tragic stampede has created unprecedented challenges for one of IPL's most popular franchises, even as it prepares for a potential ownership change.
