Speculation around Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) being sold ahead of the IPL 2026 season has intensified after former IPL Chairman Lalit Modi claimed the defending champions may soon find new owners. Modi suggested that RCB, currently owned by United Spirits (a subsidiary of Diageo Plc), could be put on the block, with bids expected to start at nearly USD 2 billion.

Modi further alleged that Citi Bank has shown interest in acquiring the franchise, and claimed United Spirits had previously explored selling the team during his tenure as IPL chief. His remarks have reignited the debate, especially since RCB recently clinched their maiden IPL title, making them one of the most valued teams in the league.

However, the franchise’s owners moved quickly to dismiss the chatter. In a regulatory filing to the BSE earlier this year, United Spirits had clarified: “The Company would like to clarify that aforesaid media reports are speculative in nature and it is not pursuing any such discussions.”

The filing came in June, soon after RCB’s historic title win and the unfortunate stampede incident in Bengaluru. While the company has yet to respond directly to Modi’s latest statements, its earlier clarification suggests that there are no active talks around a sale at present.

For now, RCB continues preparations for IPL 2026 as defending champions, while fans wait for further clarity on the ownership rumours.