Vijay Mallya sells Royal Challengers Bengaluru days before IPL season

The franchise, now regarded as one of the most valuable in global cricket and successful across both men's and women's formats, will begin their title defence against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday, March 28.

Amid the transition, former owner Vijay Mallya reflected on his association with the Bengaluru-based side. He congratulated the new owners and urged fans to continue supporting the team, adding that RCB would always remain close to his heart.

Mallya, who founded the franchise in 2008, revealed that his initial investment of INR 450 crore has now grown to a valuation exceeding INR 16,500 crore.

At the time, he noted, critics dismissed the purchase as merely a publicity move for the Royal Challenge brand, failing to recognise his long-term vision.

"I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise," Mallya said on X.

"When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project.

"Behind my much touted madnesses was building the Royal Challenge brand and hence I named the franchise RCB. Immensely gratifying to see my INR 450 crore investment grow to INR 16,500 crores.

"RCB will always remain a part of my DNA with indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World.

"To all RCB fans who came on board during my stewardship and beyond, a grateful thank you and please continue to support RCB the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara."