New RCB Co-Owner Satyan Gajwani Discusses IPL's Growth and Virat Kohli's Role Satyan Gajwani, chairman of Times Internet Limited and a new co-owner of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), highlighted the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) status as a global sports opportunity during a recent interview. He noted that the league’s rising commercial value, evidenced by multi-billion-dollar valuations for franchises, underscores its position as one of the world’s top-tier sports events. Gajwani emphasized that the recent ownership changes, including the acquisition of RCB and Rajasthan Royals by international investors, validate the IPL’s and Women’s Premier League’s (WPL) success and future potential. The RCB sale, completed by a consortium led by Aditya Birla Group, Times Group, David Blitzer’s Bolt Group, and Blackstone, fetched $1.78 billion (Rs 16,600 crore), while Rajasthan Royals were acquired for $1.63 billion. Gajwani acknowledged the media’s perception of the RCB price as a “steal” but argued that the valuation reflects the franchise’s strength. He stated, “Pricing is always subjective. It is a strong price for a strong franchise, and I think both the buyers and sellers are happy with the outcome.” Gajwani also revealed that the Times Group had evaluated both RCB and Rajasthan Royals as potential acquisitions, noting their distinct advantages and challenges. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the bidding process. Looking ahead, he mentioned plans to engage with Virat Kohli, the legendary RCB captain, to align the team’s goals with the new ownership’s vision. “Virat is an iconic player, and we’re grateful to be able to partner with him.#aditya_birla_group #royal_challengers_bangalore #david_blitzer #satyan_gajwani #times_internet
Consortium of Birla, Blitzer, Blackstone and Times of India emerges lead contender to acquire Royal Challengers Bengaluru Moneycontrol reported on March 24, 2026, that Blackstone, the world’s largest private equity firm, had engaged in discussions to join a consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group and American sports investor David Blitzer. The consortium, which may include a fourth partner, is positioned as the primary candidate to acquire the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a prominent cricket franchise in the Indian Premier League. The potential acquisition has sparked significant interest, with expectations of an official announcement in the near future. The consortium’s bid is estimated to value the RCB franchise between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, reflecting the growing financial stakes in sports ownership. The Aditya Birla Group, a major Indian conglomerate with diverse interests in industries such as textiles, metals, and real estate, has been actively involved in sports investments, including a previous stake in the Delhi Capitals. David Blitzer, known for his investments in sports teams such as the New York Islanders and the New York Liberty, brings international expertise to the consortium. The consortium’s emergence as a leading contender highlights the competitive nature of acquiring top-tier sports franchises in India. The RCB, founded in 2008, has been a dominant force in the IPL, winning the championship twice. Its potential sale underscores the increasing commercialization of cricket and the global appeal of Indian sports teams. Analysts suggest that the consortium’s combined resources and strategic vision could position the RCB for further growth, both domestically and internationally.#aditya_birla_group #royal_challengers_bengaluru #blackstone #david_blitzer #indian_premler_league
