In 2026, Amrit Thomas took over as the chairman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after a major acquisition.
In a significant development for cricket fans, Amrit Thomas has officially become the chairman of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as of March 28, 2026. This transition follows the financial scandals that plagued the franchise under its former owner, Vijay Mallya.
The acquisition marks a new era for RCB, as the franchise was sold for a record $1.78 billion, valuing it at approximately INR 166.6 billion. The new ownership consortium includes prominent organizations such as the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone.
Vijay Mallya originally purchased RCB in 2008 for INR 450 crores, a decision that was met with skepticism at the time. Reflecting on the journey, Mallya stated, “When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project.” His tenure saw the team reach new heights, culminating in their first IPL trophy in 2025.
As the defending champions of IPL 2026, RCB is poised to continue its legacy under the new leadership. Rajat Patidar, who captains the team, will aim to build on the success achieved in the previous season.
On the day of the season opener at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Mallya expressed his sentiments, saying, “The Day has arrived for our Lions of Bengaluru…namma sinhagulu…IPL Champions. Good Luck and Play Bold…Dhairyadinda ațavadi.” This reflects the pride and hope that still resonates with the franchise’s supporters.
As RCB embarks on this new chapter, the reactions from fans and analysts have been largely positive, acknowledging the potential for growth and stability under the new ownership. The transition is seen as a necessary step to restore the franchise’s reputation and financial health.
While the details surrounding the acquisition and future plans remain to be fully disclosed, the excitement in Bengaluru is palpable as the IPL 2026 season kicks off. The franchise’s new direction under Amrit Thomas is anticipated to bring fresh strategies and renewed enthusiasm to the team.
Overall, the changes at RCB signify a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history, as it seeks to redefine itself in the competitive landscape of Indian Premier League cricket.
