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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is one of the strongest teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Although the team has not been able yet to lift the trophy, they have a huge fanbase. Also, the association of Virat Kohli with this franchise since the very first season has played a crucial role in the success of RCB.
However, many people are confused about the ownership of this franchise. It is an open fact that the liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya owns the RCB franchise, but people are confused about the ownership structure.
In this blog, we will uncover who the owner of the Royal Challengers Bangalore is and what the ownership structure of this franchise is.
Overview of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
The team has a new name- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). It was one of those teams that participated in the inaugural season- 2008. When the auction occurred in September 2007, Vijay Mallya made the second-highest bid. He acquired RCB for US$ 111.6 million, which was slightly less than Reliance Industries’ Mumbai Indians.
The team was full of legendary names like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Jacques Kallis, Zahir Khan, and Dale Steyn. At the same time, a young sensation was also brought into this team- Virat Kohli. Rahul Dravid was the skipper for the first season, and Venkatesh Prasad was appointed as the head coach. However, their start was not among the best ones. Average performances from star players and the unsatisfied attitude of the owner made the team look weaker.
It was only in the 2010 edition that RCB made its first impact under Kumble’s captaincy. They won 7 out of 14 matches and ultimately qualified for the semi-final. Additionally, the team qualified for the semi-finals of the Champions League as well. But after this, Kumble announced his retirement. It was at the 2013 auction that Virat Kohli succeeded Daniel Vittory in becoming the captain of the RCB and led this team until 2021.
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Who is the Owner of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025?
The United Spirits Limited (USL) is the official owning body of the RCB. It is a liquor and beverage production company owned by Vijay Mallya. The USL is a subsidiary of Diageo- an English liquor brand. This team was founded in 2008 and named after the primary liquor brand of the USL- Royal Challenge.
As far as the ownership structure and management are concerned, there have been some changes over the years. Initially, Vijay Mallya was the chairman and non-executive director of the RCB, followed by Mahendra Kumar Sharma. However, the current chairman of RCB and chief commercial officer at USL is Prathmesh Mishra. The team manager is Shaminder Singh Sidhu, and the director is Mo Bobat. The former Zimbabwean legend Andy Flower has joined the team as head coach, whereas Dinesh Karthik is appointed as the batting coach and mentor.
United Spirits Limited (USL): The Parent Company
United Spirits Limited (USL) is the official owner of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise. It is one of the largest liquor and beverage companies in India and operates as a subsidiary of Diageo, a global leader in alcoholic beverages based in the United Kingdom.
History and Background of USL
United Spirits Limited has a long-standing presence in the Indian market. Initially founded as McDowell and Company in 1826, the company has undergone several transformations over the years. Today, USL produces and distributes some of the most popular liquor brands in India, including McDowell’s No.1, Royal Challenge, Signature, and Antiquity.
The association of USL with cricket, particularly through RCB, is not just a business investment but also a branding strategy. The franchise was named after one of USL’s flagship whisky brands, Royal Challenge, giving it a strong market connection.
USL’s Acquisition and Stake in RCB
When the IPL was launched in 2008, United Spirits Limited, under the leadership of Vijay Mallya, acquired the RCB franchise for US$ 111.6 million. This was the second-highest bid at the time, just behind Mumbai Indians, which was bought by Reliance Industries.
Over the years, USL has witnessed multiple changes in its ownership and management. Following financial troubles faced by Vijay Mallya, Diageo gradually took over a significant stake in USL, leading to a shift in the operational control of RCB. Currently, Prathmesh Mishra serves as the chairman of RCB and plays a key role in its management under the Diageo-led structure.
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How Does USL Benefit from Owning RCB?
Owning RCB provides USL with massive brand visibility and market reach. The franchise’s popularity helps promote its liquor brands, especially Royal Challenge. Additionally, RCB’s association with global stars like Virat Kohli enhances USL’s brand credibility, driving consumer engagement and strengthening its business presence in India.
A Perfect Branding Opportunity
RCB’s gigantic fanbase gives USL an excellent platform to promote its brands. The franchise’s name itself is inspired by USL’s whisky brand, Royal Challenge, ensuring continuous brand recall. With IPL’s massive viewership, USL benefits from increased consumer engagement, strategic sponsorships, and heightened visibility, strengthening its presence in the competitive liquor market.
Strengthening Global Presence
USL, as a subsidiary of Diageo, leverages RCB’s popularity to expand its reach beyond India. Since the IPL is the biggest cricket league in the world, the viewership helps enhance USL’s brand recognition in international markets. With cricket being a widely followed sport, RCB’s association allows USL to position itself as a global player in the liquor and beverage industry.
A Highly Engaged Fanbase
RCB has one of the most loyal fan bases in the league. It ultimately helps USL reach the masses. Social media interactions, merchandise sales, and digital campaigns keep the brand relevant. This dedicated following not only boosts RCB’s market value but also strengthens USL’s consumer loyalty and long-term brand recall in a competitive industry.
What Does USL’s Ownership Mean for RCB in IPL 2025?
Under United Spirits Limited, RCB has stability, financial backing, and a clear vision. But what does this mean for the team in IPL 2025?
- Stronger Management – No off-field distractions, full focus on cricket.
- Bigger Investments – More money for player acquisitions, training facilities, and staff.
- Consistent Brand Growth – RCB remains a top brand even beyond IPL.
One thing is clear—RCB is in safe hands. The team’s future is backed by corporate expertise, financial strength, and long-term planning.
RCB’s Brand Value and Market Position
RCB is one of the most valuable franchises in the IPL, and it has a strong brand identity despite not winning a title. Backed by United Spirits Limited, RCB enjoys high sponsorship deals, massive merchandise sales, and a loyal fanbase. The presence of cricketing icons like Virat Kohli enhances its market appeal, making it a prime commercial asset. The franchise consistently ranks among the top IPL teams in terms of social media engagement and global reach. USL’s strategic marketing and association with RCB further boost the team’s financial strength, ensuring sustained growth in brand value and market positioning.
RCB’s Chances of Winning IPL 2025
RCB fans have been waiting forever for that one perfect season where everything clicks, and they finally lift the IPL trophy. Every year, hopes are high, and every year, something goes wrong—bad luck, bad form, bad day, something always happens. So, is 2025 going to be different? Let’s break it down.
1. The Squad Looks Strong on Paper (As Always)
RCB always builds a solid team on paper, but the real issue has been consistency on the field. They’ve got the big names, the match-winners, the impact players—but can they finally play as a team when it matters most?
2. Death Bowling—Fixed or Still a Problem?
Bowling at the end overs? Always an issue. No matter how well the team does in the first 15 overs, the last few always go for plenty of runs. If they don’t fix this, same old story again.
3. Pressure Matches—RCB’s Biggest Weakness
RCB reaches playoffs often, but when it comes to the big knockout games, something always collapses. Maybe it’s the expectations, maybe it’s bad luck, but unless they handle pressure better, that trophy will stay out of reach.
4. The Virat Kohli Factor
Even after all these years, Kohli is still the heart of RCB. If he finds form and leads from the front, the team plays differently altogether. But if he struggles, the whole batting order looks shaky.
5. This Could Finally Be the Year
Every year, RCB looks strong, starts well, and gets fans excited, however, they are yet to register the massive victory the fans are looking at. If they fix their death bowling, handle pressure games, and find consistency, they have a real shot at winning IPL 2025. If not? Another season of “Ee Sala Cup Namde” memes.
Also Read: ICC Champions Trophy Winners Complete List (1998-2025)
Final Thoughts: RCB’s Road Ahead Under USL
From its glamorous beginnings under Vijay Mallya to its corporate-driven success under United Spirits Limited, RCB’s ownership journey has been eventful.
So, while fans wait for that elusive first IPL trophy, one thing is certain—RCB is not just a team; it’s a brand, a legacy, and a powerhouse in Indian cricket. The IPL RCB owner’s name may have changed, but the passion for the team remains stronger than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About RCB Owner
United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of Diageo, owns RCB. The company took full control after Vijay Mallya’s exit, managing the franchise’s operations and financial decisions.
USL owns and manages RCB, handling financial investments, branding, and sponsorships. It ensures the team’s stability, strategic direction, and commercial growth while leveraging RCB’s popularity to enhance its market presence.
After Mallya’s financial crisis, Diageo acquired a controlling stake in USL, leading to a shift in RCB’s ownership. This resulted in new leadership, improved financial management, and a more structured franchise operation.
Yes, Diageo owns United Spirits Limited, the parent company of RCB. While Diageo oversees USL’s operations, RCB’s day-to-day management is handled by USL’s leadership team.
With USL’s stable financial backing, RCB improved its team management, player acquisitions, and strategic planning. However, despite strong performances, the franchise still seeks its first IPL trophy.
No, Vijay Mallya is no longer associated with RCB. After financial troubles, Diageo took over USL, effectively removing Mallya’s influence from the franchise’s ownership and management.
United Spirits took over RCB to secure its investment, maintain brand value, and ensure financial stability after Vijay Mallya’s exit due to legal and financial issues.
Diageo indirectly influences RCB’s decisions through its ownership of USL. However, day-to-day team operations, sponsorships, and management are handled by USL’s leadership.
As of now, USL is expected to continue owning RCB. Unless Diageo decides to sell its stake, the company will retain control over the franchise.
After USL’s takeover, RCB saw improved financial stability, professional management, and better player investments. The team became more commercially strong, focusing on long-term brand building and performance improvements.
