The cricket world is buzzing after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was officially put up for sale by its owners, Diageo. The big question now on every fan’s mind – will Virat Kohli, the face of the franchise for over a decade, continue with RCB under new ownership?
🚨 RCB HAS BEEN PUT ON SALE. 🚨
– There’s confidence that the sale will be completed by 31st March. (Cricbuzz). pic.twitter.com/hxeywOvEst---Advertisement---— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 5, 2025
Also Read: RCB on SALE! Defending champions expected to be sold before IPL 2026 season kickoff
RCB on the Market: End of an Era?
In an official statement to the Bombay Stock Exchange, Diageo confirmed it has initiated a “strategic review” of its investment in Royal Challengers Sports Pvt. Ltd (RCSPL), which owns the men’s and women’s RCB teams.
The company revealed that the sale process is expected to be completed by March 31, 2026, marking a potential end to Diageo’s long-standing association with the franchise.
For fans, it feels like the end of an era and possibly, the start of a new one.
What Happens to Virat Kohli Now?
Virat Kohli has been synonymous with RCB since the very first IPL season in 2008. He has led the team in multiple seasons, scored over 7,000 runs, and remains the most loyal player to any franchise in the league’s history.
However, with RCB up for sale, the dynamics could shift dramatically. If the new owners decide to revamp the squad or take a different approach, Kohli’s future with RCB could come into question, especially if the IPL introduces a fresh mega-auction before the 2026 season.
Cricket pundits suggest that while it’s unlikely Kohli would willingly leave RCB, a change in ownership might force difficult decisions depending on financial strategy, retention policies, and team vision.
Could Other Franchises Eye Kohli?
If Virat Kohli were ever to be available, every franchise would be eager to grab the opportunity. Teams like Delhi Capitals, his home city franchise, or Mumbai Indians, with their strong financial muscle, could emerge as potential suitors if circumstances align.
But for now, there’s no official indication that Kohli plans to leave. Insiders close to the team suggest that his emotional bond with RCB runs deeper than contracts or ownership changes.
A New Chapter Awaits
The sale of RCB marks a turning point in the IPL’s history. For fans, one question remains louder than ever:
“If RCB gets a new owner, will Virat Kohli still wear red and gold?”
As the sale process unfolds over the next few months, that answer will define not just RCB’s future but also one of Indian cricket’s most iconic legacies.
Also Read: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli left out of India A ODIs – Is BCCI planning a major move?
