In a significant turn of events, Amrit Thomas has officially taken over as the chairman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 28, 2026. This change comes after a record-breaking acquisition of the franchise for $1.78 billion, marking a new era for the team.
The acquisition was led by a consortium including the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. This transaction values RCB at an astonishing INR 166.6 billion, a stark contrast to the INR 450 crores Vijay Mallya paid when he bought the franchise in 2008.
Vijay Mallya, who previously owned RCB, faced financial scandals that led to this major shift in leadership. Mallya’s tenure saw the team reach new heights, including their first IPL trophy in 2025, but his exit marks the end of an era.
RCB, now the defending champions of IPL 2026, is led by captain Rajat Patidar, who aims to build on the team’s recent successes. The season opener at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has fans buzzing with excitement.
“The Day has arrived for our Lions of Bengaluru…namma sinhagulu…IPL Champions. Good Luck and Play Bold…Dhairyadinda ațavadi,” Mallya expressed, reflecting on the team’s journey.
He also remarked, “When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticized my investment as a vanity project.” His vision has now culminated in a sale that many are calling bittersweet.
As the IPL 2026 season kicks off, the atmosphere in Bengaluru is electric. “It’s a massive night here in Bengaluru with the IPL 2026 season opener at the Chinnaswamy,” noted an excited fan.
With the new ownership, RCB fans are hopeful for a bright future. The franchise’s transformation is a testament to the evolving landscape of cricket in India.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this ownership change, but the excitement surrounding RCB’s new chapter is palpable.
