In a seismic shift for Indian cricket, Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla has thrown his hat into the ring for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), signaling his intent to acquire the IPL powerhouse ahead of the 2026 season. The buzz around RCB’s potential ownership change has intensified following the franchise’s historic triumph and subsequent tragedy.
Poonawalla made headlines on Thursday by posting on X: ‘Preparing to place a strong and competitive bid for RCB in the coming months. It is one of the IPL’s finest teams.’ This public declaration comes amid swirling rumors that have persisted since RCB’s maiden IPL title win in 2025.
After 17 years of heartbreak, RCB, led by captain Rajat Patidar, clinched the 18th IPL season trophy by defeating Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings in a thrilling final. The victory parade at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4 turned catastrophic, with an estimated 300,000 fans overwhelming the venue. Chaos ensued outside, resulting in a stampede that claimed 11 lives and injured over 50 others, severely tarnishing the team’s image.
Despite past rumors of a sale proving unfounded, the championship glory, massive fanbase, and recent controversy have fueled genuine speculation about a takeover. Sources indicate Poonawalla isn’t alone; Homble Films, the production house behind blockbusters like KGF and Kantara, led by Vijay Kiragandur, is also vying for control.
RCB’s allure is undeniable—its star-studded legacy and Bangalore roots make it a crown jewel in the IPL. As bidding wars loom, stakeholders watch closely, wondering if new ownership can restore stability and propel the team toward sustained dominance.