In a significant development for cricket fans, Amrit Thomas has been appointed as the chairman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) following a record-breaking acquisition of the franchise. The sale, finalized on March 28, 2026, involved a consortium including the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, valuing RCB at an astonishing $1.78 billion.
This transaction marks a dramatic shift in ownership, as Vijay Mallya, the previous owner, had purchased the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores. Mallya’s tenure was marred by financial scandals, leading to the eventual sale of the team. The franchise’s valuation now stands at INR 166.6 billion, showcasing the immense growth and popularity of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
RCB, which recently celebrated its first IPL trophy win in 2025, is now the defending champion heading into the 2026 season. Under the leadership of captain Rajat Patidar, the team aims to build on its recent success and maintain its competitive edge in the league.
Vijay Mallya expressed mixed emotions regarding the sale, stating, “When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project.” His vision for RCB has now culminated in a remarkable financial return.
As the IPL 2026 season opener approaches, excitement is palpable at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. An anonymous source commented, “It’s a massive night here in Bengaluru with the IPL 2026 season opener at the Chinnaswamy.” This season is set to be a pivotal one for RCB as they navigate the challenges of being the reigning champions.
In light of the recent changes, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the new ownership will influence RCB’s strategy and performance. The acquisition has sparked discussions about the future of sports franchises in India and the increasing financial stakes involved.
Overall, the transition from Mallya to Thomas represents not just a change in leadership, but a new chapter for RCB as it seeks to solidify its place in IPL history.
