Manchester United, the elite Premier League club might bid to buy the Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
According to reports United co-owner Avram Glazer has placed bid for RCB.
The move comes at a crucial moment for RCB. The franchise finally lifted its maiden IPL trophy in 2025. The win ended a long wait. It also sent the brand’s valuation soaring.
Reports say Avram Glazer has placed a bid worth $1.8 billion, around ₹16,300 crore. The offer was made through his investment firm, Lancer Capital. It has instantly put him among the frontrunners in the ownership race. The contest is now drawing global attention, not just interest from India.
RCB’s existing owners, Diageo, through United Spirits Ltd, are believed to have explored a sale in November. This came only months after the historic title win. Several parties have shown interest since then. The list reportedly includes up to nine bidders, with Indian pharma tycoon Adar Poonawala among the prominent names.
RCB’s long-awaited IPL title in 2025 triggered a strategic rethink at the ownership level. Diageo is believed to have seen the post-title phase as the ideal moment to test the market. With the trophy finally secured, RCB’s brand value has peaked. The franchise now sits at the centre of intense demand. IPL teams are no longer just sporting entities. They are high-value business assets. RCB, with its massive fan base and global appeal, ranks among the league’s most valuable properties.
At this stage, Glazer’s proposal is said to be non-binding, with no deal formally sealed. Even so, his bid has reportedly made the cut. It is one of five offers that have been shortlisted. That places Glazer firmly in the next round of talks as the sale process gathers pace.
