Manchester United Co-Owner Avram Glazer Bids $1.8 Billion for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The RCB ownership race has turned into a high-stakes blockbuster. Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer has tabled a massive $1.8 billion bid. The offer is to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru from Diageo. Sources indicate RCB could be valued close to $2 billion. That valuation follows their breakthrough IPL title in 2025. The triumph transformed RCB from underachievers into champions. It also turbocharged their commercial appeal worldwide.
The auction has attracted global heavyweights and Indian tycoons. Private equity giants Blackstone and Carlyle are serious contenders. Indian business leaders Adar Poonawalla and Ranjan Pai are also in the mix. The shortlist is expected to narrow to four or six bidders. Final negotiations could conclude before IPL 2026 preparations accelerate.
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RCB’s Brand Power Drives Billion-Dollar Valuation
RCB remains one of the most popular teams in the league because of its dedicated fan base. Their worldwide fanbase extends from Bengaluru to various international cricket locations. Brand analysts estimate RCB’s brand value at $269 million. The organisation experiences ongoing growth through its commercial partnerships and digital presence. The championship victory increased sponsorship confidence in their ability to attract sponsors.
The IPL media rights boom establishes this increase in franchise valuations. Cricket broadcasting rights and streaming agreements have transformed the sport’s financial structure. Current franchise values now match those of top European football organisations. Investors consider IPL teams to be permanent global sports investments.
The Glazer family provides evidence that international investors now show interest in Indian cricket. His family already owns stakes in global sporting institutions. An IPL acquisition would expand that sporting empire significantly. The platform would create commercial links between football and cricket audiences.
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Diageo has not publicly confirmed the final sale decision. However, market insiders expect fierce final-round bidding. The deal could become one of cricket’s richest transactions ever. For RCB fans, the focus remains on the field. But off it, a financial power play is unfolding rapidly. The hammer may soon fall on a historic IPL takeover.