- Review expected to conclude by March 31, 2026
Diageo, the global beverage giant and owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has initiated a strategic review of its investment in the IPL and WPL franchise, according to reports.
In a filing to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the company stated the review would assess its stake in Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) — a wholly owned subsidiary of United Spirits Ltd. (USL), which is in turn owned by Diageo.
Diageo said the move aligns with its focus on core operations, calling RCB a “non-core asset” despite being a valuable brand. The review will conclude by March 31, 2026, the end of India’s financial year.
The development follows Diageo’s recent global business struggles and renewed speculation about a sale, especially after RCB’s maiden IPL title win earlier this year. The review, however, will not affect RCB’s preparations for the 2026 IPL and WPL seasons, where the franchise will compete as defending IPL champions.
