The Indian Premier League (IPL) is abuzz with news that the Rajasthan Royals, winners of the inaugural 2008 season, are reportedly exploring a sale. This development follows closely on the heels of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) officially being put on the market ahead of the 2026 season. These simultaneous reports signal a potential wave of significant transitions for prominent IPL franchises, as current owners appear eager to capitalize on the escalating franchise valuations within the lucrative league.
The speculation surrounding the Rajasthan Royals’ potential sale gained traction after a social media post by industrialist Harsh Goenka. He hinted that not only RCB but also RR might be on the selling block, citing the desire of owners to cash in on the current high valuations. While RCB’s parent company, Diageo, has confirmed a ‘strategic review’ that could lead to a sale, official confirmation regarding the Rajasthan Royals remains pending. The primary motivation behind these potential sales is the astronomical market value of IPL franchises, with RCB reportedly seeking a valuation close to USD 2 billion following their recent championship win. For the Rajasthan Royals, majority-owned by Royals Sports Group, this move represents a strategic opportunity to monetize their investment at a peak period for the IPL.