Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru will stay strong even if ownership changes

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can't seem to catch a break. After enduring an 18-year title drought in the Indian Premier League (IPL), their triumph this year was overshadowed by a deadly stampede during celebrations.

As rumours of an IPL ban circulate, RCB have faced another shocking news. According to Bloomberg, the franchise is reportedly up for sale by Diageo, which owns the team through its Indian unit, United Spirits Ltd. Although the company has declined to comment, reports suggest that Diageo may seek a valuation of $2 billion. This makes business sense, as RCB's stock would have soared after their victory against the Punjab Kings in the June 3 final.

What does this mean for RCB? Does a change in ownership signal a shift in focus and fortunes? Absolutely not. RCB has been a glamorous IPL franchise, despite not winning the title in their first 17 years. The team has always attracted high-calibre talent, with Indian superstar Virat Kohli remaining a talisman. This trend is likely to continue even if ownership changes.

It is unlikely that the team will experience any decline in quality; it is too big a brand to fail. Even during the years when they reached the final three times without winning, RCB resonated with their supporters. The franchise have a fan base that rivals that of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Their brand ambassadors include Bollywood stars Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif.

Bangaloreans love RCB, and they have supporters even outside Karnataka. This loyalty will likely continue as long as they remain a top-tier team. The franchise's value will remain strong as long as the owners invest substantial funds to retain and attract top cricketing talent.

After the IPL euphoria, RCB is currently facing a period of misfortune. This will change. They must weather this phase, much like they have in previous barren seasons. Sale or no sale, RCB’s allure will continue to shine brightly.