Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla confirmed on Thursday that he will submit a bid to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In a post on X, Poonawalla stated he would place a “strong and competitive” bid for the IPL franchise over the coming months, calling RCB one of the best teams in the league. The 45-year-old heads the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer by volume and also serves as chairman of Poonawalla Fincorp. He did not reveal specific financial details or a timeline for his bid.
RCB is currently owned by United Spirits Ltd, a subsidiary of Diageo, which is reviewing its investment in the franchise. Reports have also linked other potential buyers to the process, making the ownership situation one of the biggest off-field stories ahead of IPL 2026.
Current Ownership and Sale Process
Royal Challengers Bengaluru is currently owned by United Spirits Ltd, a subsidiary of global beverage company Diageo. In November, Diageo announced it was conducting a strategic review of its investment in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited, the parent company that owns both the IPL and WPL franchises.
The franchise is valued at approximately USD 105 million according to Forbes India. United Spirits acquired RCB from its original owner, Vijay Mallya, in 2016 after his business ventures collapsed. A tragic stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium in June that killed 11 fans during RCB’s victory celebrations also influenced the ownership decision.
Competition and Home Venue Uncertainty
Poonawalla faces competition from other potential buyers, with Hombale Films, the production house behind KGF and Kantara, also reportedly interested in acquiring the franchise. Meanwhile, RCB’s home venue for IPL 2026 remains unclear as the defending champions consider moving their home matches out of Bengaluru.
Cities including Pune, Mumbai, and Raipur are in discussions to host the team’s fixtures. The Karnataka State Cricket Association has urged RCB to continue playing at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, highlighting improved security and facilities, but the franchise stated several issues need resolution before making a final decision.
