Adar Poonawalla to enter IPL [Source: @rocketSahab, @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]Adar Poonawalla’s name has entered the IPL ownership race after he publicly confirmed his interest in buying RCB. The development comes amid future discussions of one of the league’s most popular franchises, which may be put up for sale after finally winning its first IPL title in 2025.Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been a part of the IPL since its inception in 2008. It was first owned by Vijay Mallya, a billionaire who went rogue.Adar Poonawalla confirms interest in RCBMeanwhile, Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of the Serum Institute of India, made his intentions clear through a post on X. He said he plans to submit a strong, competitive bid for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the coming months. Poonawalla described RCB as one of the best teams in the IPL. Adar Poonawalla @adarpoonawalla Over the next few months, will be putting in a STRONG and COMPETITIVE bid for @RCBTweets, one of the best teams in the IPL. This was not the first time he hinted at interest. Back in October 2025, Poonawalla had mentioned that RCB would be a great buy at the right price. His latest statement is the strongest confirmation yet that he wants to enter cricket ownership. The post immediately caught attention and sparked wide discussion among fans and experts. Poonawalla is one of India’s most well-known business figures. At 45, he heads the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer by volume and also chairs Poonawalla Fincorp. Why RCB is up for sale after historic success?RCB is likely to be put up for sale in the market shortly after winning the IPL in 2025. It was their first title after 18 long years, and the timing of the sale surprised many. The franchise is owned by Diageo, the global alcoholic beverage company, through United Spirits. In November 2025, Diageo confirmed it had started a strategic review of its investment in RCB. The process is expected to be completed by March 31, 2026. The company appears keen to cash in on RCB’s massive popularity and rising valuation after the title win. RCB has always been one of the most followed teams in the IPL. It was also the second most expensive franchise when the league began in 2008.The men’s team is the defending champion, while the women’s team won the WPL in 2024 and is currently performing strongly in the 2026 season.However, uncertainty remains around RCB’s home venue. The Chinnaswamy Stadium’s future is unclear following last year’s tragic stampede during victory celebrations.What does this mean for IPL’s business landscape?If Adar Poonawalla succeeds, it could set a new benchmark for IPL franchise valuations. Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi had earlier suggested that RCB’s sale price could become the floor value for future teams. With strong revenues, loyal fans, and recent trophies, RCB is seen as a premium asset. Poonawalla’s background in healthcare and finance also reflects how the IPL continues to attract investors beyond traditional sports ownership. The next several months will be critical, as Diageo will edge closer to making a decision. For now, RCB’s future remains open.
