Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is one of the most popular franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), despite never winning the coveted trophy. The team has a massive, loyal fanbase that has stuck with them through thick and thin. A significant factor in RCB’s staying power is its strong ownership structure.
RCB’s Owner: United Spirits Limited (USL)
RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited (USL), India’s largest alcoholic beverage company, and part of the global Diageo group. USL is known for popular brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Royal Challenge, the latter which inspired RCB’s name. Headquartered in Bengaluru, USL has played a crucial role in backing RCB’s operations, providing both financial strength and strategic direction.
Key Figures in Ownership
- Mahendra Kumar Sharma – Chairman of United Spirits Limited
- Anand Kripalu – Managing Director & CEO of USL
These leaders, along with Diageo’s international influence, help RCB maintain its position as one of the top franchises in IPL.
RCB Ownership Timeline
- 2008: Vijay Mallya, the owner of Kingfisher Airlines, purchased RCB for $111.6 million, making it the second-highest bid in the inaugural IPL auction.
- 2015: Diageo acquired United Spirits, and with that, control of RCB shifted.
- 2016: After Mallya’s legal issues, he stepped away from RCB, and United Spirits became the sole owner, bringing stability to the franchise.
Controversies and Legal Challenges
During Vijay Mallya’s time, RCB’s ownership was linked to his financial troubles, including unpaid loans, which led to Mallya’s exit from both United Spirits and RCB. Since then, the team has been run smoothly under United Spirits’ full control, focusing on cricket and business development.
Business Ventures and Sponsorships
RCB enjoys sponsorships from global and domestic brands, helping the team stay financially sound while boosting its brand image. Some prominent sponsors include:
- Qatar Airways, Happilo, KEI Wires, Jio, Hindware Homes
- PUMA, boAt, Nippon Paint, Bira 91, DNA Networks
RCB also has a team in the Women’s Premier League called Royal Challengers Bangalore Women (RCB-W), further expanding its presence in Indian cricket.
FAQs
Q.1. Who owns Royal Challengers Bangalore?
Answer: RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited, part of Diageo.
Q.2. Who are the key figures in the team’s ownership?
Answer: Mahendra Kumar Sharma (Chairman) and Anand Kripalu (MD & CEO) lead the team’s ownership.
Q.3. What controversies has the ownership faced?
Answer: RCB faced challenges during Vijay Mallya’s tenure but has run smoothly since United Spirits took full control.
Q.4. What other ventures are associated with the team’s owners?
Answer: United Spirits produces top alcoholic brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Royal Challenge, and imports global brands under Diageo.
This blend of solid ownership and extensive brand partnerships has made RCB a major player in the IPL, even as they continue their quest for the championship
Read Also;
