Vijay Mallya on RCB sale: ‘Will remain part of my DNA’, recalls Virat Kohli pick Vijay Mallya reflected on his legacy with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as the franchise transitions to new ownership. In a heartfelt message, Mallya emphasized that the team will remain an integral part of his identity, citing the emotional connection he feels toward the brand. He highlighted the significance of his early decision to invest in the franchise, which he described as a bold vision to build the RCB brand. The franchise, now valued at approximately INR 16,600 crore, marks a remarkable growth trajectory from his initial investment of INR 450 crore. Mallya also took the opportunity to recall his pivotal role in shaping the career of Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s most celebrated players. He expressed pride in backing the young Kohli during his early days, noting that the RCB’s journey is intertwined with the rise of the Indian cricket star. “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,” Mallya wrote. He extended his gratitude to the RCB fanbase, urging them to continue supporting the team as it moves forward under new stewardship. The emotional post follows a major ownership shift in the Indian Premier League (IPL). A consortium comprising the Aditya Birla Group, Times of India, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone has acquired 100% of the RCB franchise from United Spirits, a subsidiary of Diageo Plc. This deal, described as the largest in IPL history, encompasses both the IPL and Women’s Premier League (WPL) teams. The transaction underscores the growing commercial value of cricket franchises and the strategic interests of diverse investors in the sport.#virat_kohli #aditya_birla_group #times_of_india #royal_challengers_bangalore #vijay_mallya
RCB Sale: Vijay Mallya Responds to Critics Who Mocked His Investment as a 'Vanity Project' Vijay Mallya, the founder of Royal Challenger Bangalore (RCB), publicly addressed critics who once dismissed his investment in the cricket franchise as a "vanity project" after the team was sold for nearly $2 billion (₹18,776 crore). The sale, announced by United Spirits Ltd (USL) on March 24, 2026, involved a ₹16,660-crore all-cash deal to a consortium including Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. The transaction also included a ₹540-crore payout for the Women’s Premier League and a 5% commission to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In a post on X, Mallya congratulated the new owners, stating, “I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise.” He highlighted the growth of his initial ₹450-crore investment in 2008, which he purchased from the Bangalore Cricket Association. “It is immensely gratifying to see my ₹450 crore investment grow to ₹16,660 crore,” he said, emphasizing the franchise’s value. Mallya also noted that RCB will remain a part of his legacy, recalling memories such as “picking the young Virat Kohli, who is now amongst the best in the world.” Mallya’s comments came amid renewed scrutiny over his financial dealings. He had previously faced calls for his extradition from the UK, where he resides, and had offered to repay 100% of “public money” but claimed banks and authorities refused his proposal. The sale of RCB, which is now part of the IPL, also sparked discussions about the team’s future. Players will wear jersey No. 11 to honor victims of the 2018 Bengaluru stampede, a gesture that Mallya acknowledged as a meaningful tribute.#aditya_birla_group #times_of_india_group #vijay_mallya #royal_challenger_bangalore #united_spirits_ltd
