IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals franchises up for sale

Developments ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season have drawn attention, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals formally up for sale and attracting interest from domestic and international investors.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, owned by Diageo’s United Spirits Ltd, has been placed on the market following a strategic review. The sale process is expected to conclude by the end of March 2026, with market estimates valuing the franchise at around $2 billion. Shortlisted bidders include Indian industrialists, private equity firms and overseas sports owners. A consortium linked to the Glazer family, co-owners of Manchester United, has reportedly shown interest, submitting non-binding bids, with binding offers due soon.

Rajasthan Royals, inaugural IPL winners in 2008, are also for sale, with a shortlist of potential buyers including private equity firms, entrepreneurs and media groups. The franchise is estimated to fetch more than $1 billion, with final bids anticipated in early March. Any ownership changes require approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

These sales represent a significant ownership shift in IPL history, highlighting the league’s rising global investment appeal ahead of the 2026 season.

Separately, coverage of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics noted ongoing competitions, including speed skating, snowboarding and curling on Monday, with Italy, Japan and Norway leading the medal table with three medals each. Tuesday’s schedule features short-track speed skating finals, cross-country skiing sprints, figure skating and more. In Afghanistan, Ariana Radio and Television Network holds exclusive broadcast rights, with fans directed to its platforms for updates.