RCB Owner Name 2026: Amrit Thomas Takes the Helm After Mallya’s Exit
In a major development for cricket fans, Amrit Thomas has officially taken over as the chairman of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as of March 28, 2026. This transition comes after a consortium, including the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone, acquired the franchise for a staggering $1.78 billion.
The acquisition, which values RCB at approximately INR 166.6 billion, marks a significant shift in the franchise’s leadership following the tumultuous tenure of former owner Vijay Mallya. Mallya, who purchased RCB in 2008 for INR 450 crores, faced numerous financial scandals that ultimately led to this change in ownership.
RCB’s recent success adds context to this ownership change. The team clinched its first IPL trophy in 2025 and enters the 2026 season as the defending champions, under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar. This victory has heightened expectations for the franchise, making the timing of the ownership transition particularly poignant.
Vijay Mallya, reflecting on his time with RCB, stated, “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 sentiments underscore the dramatic evolution of RCB’s value and status in the IPL landscape.
The IPL 2026 season opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium is anticipated to be a massive event, with Mallya expressing his pride in the team’s achievements. He remarked, “The Day has arrived for our Lions of Bengaluru…namma sinhagulu…IPL Champions. Good Luck and Play Bold…Dhairyadinda ațavadi.”
This acquisition not only signifies a new chapter for RCB but also reflects the growing financial stakes within the IPL. The record sale price highlights the franchise’s potential and the increasing competition among investors in the cricketing world.
As RCB prepares for the upcoming season, the reactions from fans and analysts are mixed. While many are excited about the new leadership under Thomas, others are nostalgic about Mallya’s controversial yet impactful tenure.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how this ownership change will affect RCB’s operational strategies and player acquisitions moving forward. However, the franchise’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge appears to be a priority.
In conclusion, the transition to Amrit Thomas as RCB’s chairman marks a significant milestone in the franchise’s history, setting the stage for a new era in Bengaluru’s cricketing narrative.
