The excitement around IPL 2026 is only growing, with major developments surfacing regarding the potential sales of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Rajasthan Royals (RR). With the upcoming season just around the corner, these franchises are likely to change hands, stirring considerable interest among bidders.
Ownership Changes in IPL
Reports suggest that both RCB and RR are on the market, a move confirmed by Harsha Goenka, sibling of the Lucknow Super Giants owner, Sanjiv Goenka. "I hear, not one, but two IPL teams are now up for sale- RCB and RR. It seems clear that people want to cash in the rich valuations today," he stated on X.
Potential Buyers from Diverse Locations
Various parties from cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and even as far as the USA are showing interest in acquiring these franchises. The bidding atmosphere is intensifying, and it's rumored that over four to five entities are preparing to place their bids.
Rajasthan Royals' Current Situation
While Rajasthan Royals have not officially confirmed any plans to sell, there are talks of relocating their home venue from Jaipur due to conflicts with the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). The franchise is considering Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium as a potential new home.
Recent Franchise Controversies
RR faced some challenges last season, including a match-fixing allegation made by an official from the RCA, which the team strongly refuted. However, the past controversies seem to have not dampened interest in the team, especially considering their performance, where they ended the IPL 2024 season in ninth place.
Player Trade Highlights
In a significant trade move, Sanju Samson was transferred to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with RR acquiring Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in return. This update only adds to the ongoing narrative of changes within the franchise.
Valuations of IPL Franchises
The sale of RCB, confirmed by Diageo on November 5, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Initial hints about the sale emerged earlier in October when Adar Poonawalla indicated it was likely. It was reported by Forbes that RCB was valued at over $1 billion in 2022, and this figure is expected to increase.
| Franchise |
2022 Valuation |
Current Status |
| RCB |
$1 billion |
Up for Sale |
| RR |
Not Disclosed |
Considering Sale |
Who Will Step In?
As the plot thickens, speculation arises about who the successful bidders will be. Poonawalla, Kamath, and Pai are among the frontrunners, with their significant net worth enhancing their chances of winning over the franchises. The timeline for these sales is reportedly set to conclude by the end of March 2026, according to disclosures by Diageo and United Spirits Limited.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The potential ownership changes of these prominent teams have ignited excitement as IPL 2026 approaches. As fans eagerly await further developments, one thing is sure: the landscape of the IPL may shift dramatically, bringing new ownership and opportunities for both franchises.