RCB franchise sale talks: Adar Poonawalla shows interest

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, is reportedly in talks to acquire the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), according to sources cited by NDTV Profit. The discussions are said to be at an advanced stage, with several bidders also showing interest in the team. As per reports, RCB is exploring a one-time payment option for the sale.

Poonawalla’s reported interest is seen as part of his broader diversification strategy. At present, RCB is owned by United Spirits Limited, a subsidiary of the Diageo Group. Earlier in June, Bloomberg had reported that Diageo was considering options for RCB’s ownership, with an estimated valuation of up to $2 billion. The company, however, clarified in an exchange filing that such reports were speculative and that no formal discussions were underway at the time.

The latest round of talks has reignited speculation around a possible change in ownership of the Bengaluru-based franchise.