Who Owns Royal Challengers Bangalore?

RCB owners have played a big role in their popularity [Source: @chinmayshah28/x.com]RCB owners have played a big role in their popularity [Source: @chinmayshah28/x.com]

Few teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have a fan-following as loyal and passionate as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Whether it’s their superstars, thrilling matches, or fervent fans, RCB knows how to grab the limelight.

The Bangalore based franchise has been part of the cash-rich league since its inception in 2008, but they haven’t lifted the trophy yet. Despite that RCB has built a huge fanbase that sticks with them through all kinds of ups and downs.

One of the most important reasons for RCB’s staying power is their owners, United Spirits Limited (USL). They’ve been backing the team for years and have helped RCB grow into one of the most valuable franchises in the league.

Here’s a closer look at Royal Challengers Bangalore owners who run the show behind this powerhouse franchise.

Royal Challengers Bangalore Owner: United Spirits Limited

RCB is owned by India’s biggest alcoholic beverage company. United Spirits Limited (USL). They’re the ones behind some of the most popular drinks in the world, like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Black & White. Fun fact: RCB’s name comes from USL’s brand Royal Challenge.

USL is based in Bengaluru, which makes it the perfect owner for a team like RCB. The company is also part of Diageo, a global giant in the alcohol industry. With such a strong and professional setup, RCB always has solid backing.

Key Figures in Ownership

At the top of USL, you’ve got Mahendra Kumar Sharma, who’s the Chairman, and Anand Kripalu, the MD and CEO. These two play a big role in making sure RCB is managed smoothly.

Moreover, there’s Diageo, USL’s parent company, which brings an international touch to RCB’s operations. Their expertise helps the team stay organized and focused and makes sure everything runs like clockwork.


RCB’s Ownership History

RCB’s ownership has been quite a ride:

  • In 2008, RCB was bought by Vijay Mallya, the Kingfisher Airlines boss, for $111.6 million. It was the second-highest bid in the first IPL auction. Mallya was always spotted at RCB games.
  • In 2015, things changed when Diageo India took control of United Spirits and, with it, RCB.
  • By 2016, Mallya’s legal troubles forced him to step away, and United Spirits became the sole owner of RCB.
  • Since then, things have been much more stable, with USL focusing on the team’s cricketing and business goals.

United Spirits: Controversies and Legal Challenges

RCB hasn’t had the smoothest past. Back when Vijay Mallya was in charge, the team was often linked to his controversies. In 2016, he faced legal trouble over unpaid loans, which forced him to step away from United Spirits and RCB.

But since USL took full control, it’s been a drama-free ride. The team’s focus is now squarely on cricket and keeping their fans happy.

Business Ventures and Affiliations

RCB has some of the biggest brands backing them, which helps the team stay financially strong and super popular with fans. Their top sponsors include Qatar Airways, Happilo, KEI Wires and Cables, Jio, and Hindware Homes. Among other prominent names are PUMA, boAt, Nippon Paint, Bira 91, and DNA Networks are also part of their sponsor squad.

These partnerships do more than just bring in money—they help build RCB’s brand. Sponsors like PUMA and boAt even release exclusive RCB merchandise, which fans can’t get enough of. They also own a team in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) which goes by Royal Challengers Bangalore Women (RCB-W).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1. Who owns Royal Challengers Bangalore?

Answer: RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited, which is part of Diageo.

Q.2. Who are the key figures in the team’s ownership?

Answer: Mahendra Kumar Sharma (Chairman) and Anand Kripalu (MD & CEO) are the main people behind RCB’s ownership.

Q.3. What controversies has the ownership faced, if any?

Answer: RCB had some issues when Vijay Mallya was involved, but since United Spirits took over, things have been smooth.

Q.4. What other ventures are associated with the team’s owners?

Answer: United Spirits produces top alcohol brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Royal Challenge, and also imports other global brands under Diageo.