Eighteen years after its inception, Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025. As celebrations erupted, many looked back at the franchise’s origin—particularly at its original owner, Vijay Mallya, who has now shared the business rationale behind his investment.
In a candid podcast chat, the fugitive tycoon revealed that he had bid for three IPL teams in 2008, narrowly missing out on the Mumbai Indians, which Mukesh Ambani eventually bought. Mallya ended up acquiring RCB for $112 million, then the second-highest bid in the auction.
He said the IPL pitch by Lalit Modi intrigued him as a transformative idea in Indian cricket. “I envisioned RCB as more than a team—it was a brand tied closely with Bangalore’s energy and lifestyle,” said Mallya. His main intent, he admitted, was to promote Royal Challenge whisky through the franchise.
RCB’s glamorous image was part of his marketing strategy—after-match parties, cheerleaders, and flashy branding were all deliberate. “It wasn’t just about cricket; it was about creating an experience,” he added.
He took pride in spotting a young Virat Kohli during the U-19 World Cup and bringing him on board when Delhi passed on him. “He was raw but electric,” Mallya recalled. He also signed icons like Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Anil Kumble, and Zaheer Khan to balance local pride with international appeal.
Asked about his dream picks today, he named Bumrah, Suryakumar, Pant, and KL Rahul as stars he’d want in RCB.
Read also: