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David Blitzer, Blackstone Acquire IPL's RCB for $1.78 Billion

A consortium including Blackstone and David Blitzer has acquired the Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL franchise for $1.78 billion from United Spirits. This deal underscores the immense value of the Indian Premier League, which is worth $18.5 billion, with RCB itself valued at $269 million. The buyer group also features the Aditya Birla Group and Times of India Group, with Blitzer being a prominent sports investor globally. RCB, a founding IPL team, won its first title in 2025 and boasts a large fan base. The consortium plans to invest in growing the franchise's success both competitively and commercially. The sale aligns with United Spirits' strategy to focus on its core alcohol business.

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David Blitzer, Blackstone Acquire IPL's RCB for $1.78 Billion

In a landmark transaction, a consortium led by Blackstone and sports investor David Blitzer has purchased the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise of the Indian Premier League for 166 billion rupees ($1.78 billion).

Deal Overview

  • The sale was executed by United Spirits, a Diageo subsidiary, to divest non-core assets and concentrate on its alcohol business.
  • The all-cash deal was announced in an exchange filing on Tuesday.

IPL and RCB Valuation

  • The Indian Premier League is valued at $18.5 billion, according to a Houlihan Lokey report.
  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru is the league's most valuable brand, estimated at $269 million.
  • The IPL, established in 2008, comprises 10 city-based teams and blends high-intensity cricket with celebrity ownership and entertainment.
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Buyer Consortium

The acquisition group includes:

  • Blackstone, through its perpetual private equity strategy BXPE.
  • David Blitzer, via his venture Bolt Ventures.
  • Aditya Birla Group.
  • Times of India Group.

David Blitzer is a global sports investor with stakes in franchises across the English Premier League, NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, and other leagues.

RCB's Legacy and Prospects

  • RCB has been a founding member of the IPL and secured its maiden championship in 2025.
  • The consortium emphasized RCB's "championship-winning culture" and "passionate fan base" as key assets.
  • They expressed commitment to enhancing the franchise's performance on the field and expanding its commercial reach.
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