Who is the Owner of RCB? Ownership History and Brand Value

Indian Premier League (IPL) is the most celebrated sport globally. Unlike the Indian cricket team, owned or regulated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), IPL teams are owned by their respective franchisees. Among the 10 notable IPL teams, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is one of the most popular IPL teams, attracting most IPL fans with its star power and thrilling performances.

But do you know who owns the RCB team and who is the RCB owner? We will also explore whether is Vijay Mallya still the owner of RCB or not. Let’s take a closer look at the owner of RCB team, RCB brand value, and how the franchise’s leadership has evolved over the years.

Who is the Owner of Royal Challengers Bangalore?

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is currently owned by United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of Diageo, a British multinational beverage company. Vijay Mallya initially purchased the franchise in 2008, but ownership shifted to Diageo after it secured a majority stake in United Spirits. As of 2024, RCB operates under Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited, a division of USL.

RCB Owner Name 2025: As of March 2025, the RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of Diageo. The chairman of RCB is Prathamesh Mishra who is the Chief Commercial Officer of Diageo India.

RCB Owner 2024: In 2024, the owner of RCB was United Spirits Limited. USL became the owner of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2016 after Vijay Mallya’s exit due to legal troubles.

Ownership History of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

RCB was owned by Vijay Mallya initially, who bought the franchise at the first-ever IPL auction in 2008. United Spirits Limited (USL) gained full ownership of the team because of financial issues. Here is the history of RCB owners to date:

2008 – Vijay Mallya Acquires RCB

• RCB was founded in 2008 as part of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL).
• The franchise was purchased by Vijay Mallya, then chairman of United Spirits Limited (USL), for $111.6 million, making it one of the most expensive teams at the time.

2013-2016 – Diageo Gains Control of United Spirits

• In 2013, British beverage giant Diageo began acquiring a stake in United Spirits Limited (USL).
• By 2016, Diageo had gained majority control of USL, effectively taking over RCB’s ownership.

2016 – Vijay Mallya’s Exit

• Vijay Mallya resigned as chairman of USL in 2016 following financial controversies.
• With Mallya’s departure, RCB came under full ownership of United Spirits Limited (USL), controlled by Diageo.

2023 – Current RCB Owner

In 2023, United Spirits formed a new subsidiary, Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL), to oversee RCB’s operations.

Note: While USL remains the official owner of RCB, RCSPL now manages the team’s operations, branding, and expansion into WPL and esports.

Who Was the First Owner of RCB?

Vijay Mallya was the first owner of RCB who bought RCB for $111.6 million during the inaugural edition of IPL in 2008. Vijay Mallya was the chairman of United Spirits Ltd (USL) till 2016 but was removed due to alleged financial irregularities. During his proprietorship, RCB was a star-studded team that attracted top-class international and Indian players.

However, in 2016 after financial distress, Mallya lost control over USL, and Diageo, a British multinational, acquired a majority stake in USL and thus became the new owner of RCB.

All IPL Teams Owner in 2025 List

RCB Net Worth and Brand Value

The brand worth of RCB was valued at $117 million (1013.17 crore) in 2024, a phenomenal 67% growth from last year. The increase indicates the team’s healthy market presence, devoted fan following, and judicious commercial collaborations, which render it one of the most valued IPL franchises.

With a huge fan base and a robust online presence, RCB’s financial development will increase even more. Though the franchise hasn’t yet achieved an IPL championship, its market power and popularity are still unmatched, and it is one of the most successful teams in the Indian Premier League.

About United Spirits Limited (USL)

United Spirits Limited (USL) is India’s largest alcoholic beverage company and a subsidiary of Diageo, which is a world leader in the business. Established in 1826, USL manufactures and sells a large portfolio of spirits such as whisky, rum, vodka, and gin. The company has successful brands such as McDowell’s No.1, Royal Challenge, and Signature. USL also owns Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Overview:

• United Spirits Limited (USL) is India’s largest liquor company and a subsidiary of Diageo.
• USL acquired RCB from Vijay Mallya because of financial problems.
• Diageo purchased USL in 2014 and thus became the final owner of RCB.
• RCB is a branding vehicle for USL, even with IPL regulations on alcohol promotions.
• USL still runs RCB’s operations and sponsorships.