Vijay Mallya Reacts to RCB’s Record-Breaking Sale, Recalls Early Investment

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru owner Vijay Mallya has reacted to the franchise’s historic sale, sharing his thoughts on social media after the team became the most expensive in Indian Premier League history.

A consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group acquired RCB for 1.78 billion dollars, which is more than Rs 16,000 crore. This record-breaking IPL franchise sale has once again highlighted the massive growth in team valuations over the years.

Consortium Details Behind RCB’s Historic Deal

The consortium that secured RCB includes major global and domestic investors. Along with the Aditya Birla Group, the deal features Blackstone, US-based investor David Blitzer’s Bolt Ventures, and Times of India.

This high-profile acquisition has officially made Royal Challengers Bengaluru the costliest IPL franchise ever, surpassing previous records and setting a new benchmark in cricket investments.

Vijay Mallya’s Emotional Message for RCB

Reacting to the news, Vijay Mallya reflected on his journey with the franchise and how his initial investment has grown over time. He shared a detailed message on social media, expressing pride and nostalgia.

"I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise. When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project. Behind my much touted madnesses was building the Royal Challenge brand and hence I named the franchise RCB. Immensely gratifying to see my INR 450 crore investment grow to INR 16,500 crores. RCB will always remain a part of my DNA with indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World. To all RCB fans who came on board during my stewardship and beyond, a grateful thank you and please continue to support RCB the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara,"

The message highlights Mallya’s emotional connection with the team and his role in shaping its early identity.

From Rs 450 Crore to Rs 16,000 Crore: A Massive Growth Story

Mallya also pointed out how he originally bought the franchise for Rs 450 crore back in 2008. At the time, the investment was widely questioned, but over the years, the value of the franchise has increased exponentially.

The journey of RCB reflects the rapid commercial expansion of the IPL, where franchises have become some of the most valuable sports properties globally.

Rajasthan Royals Deal Also Sets High Benchmark

Before the RCB deal, Rajasthan Royals had set a major record when it was acquired by a US-based consortium led by Kal Somani for USD 1.63 billion, approximately Rs 15,290 crore.

The Somani-led group includes Rob Walton from the Walmart family and the Hamp family from Ford Motor Company, further showing strong global interest in IPL franchises.

Who Is Kal Somani?

Kal Somani is an Arizona-based tech entrepreneur known for founding companies such as IntraEdge, Truyo.Ai, and Academian. His involvement in IPL investments reflects the growing intersection of technology, business, and sports.

With such high-profile investors entering the league, IPL franchise ownership is becoming increasingly competitive and globally relevant.

Other Bidders in the Race for RCB

The bidding process for Royal Challengers Bengaluru also saw interest from several major groups. Other contenders included a Times Internet-led consortium, the Aditya Birla Group, and the Mittal family led by ArcelorMittal CEO Aditya Mittal.

The strong competition for ownership further underlines the immense value and appeal of IPL teams.