Reports from late January 2026 indicate that Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma is allegedly in discussions to acquire a 3% stake in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, a deal rumored to be worth approximately ₹400 crore.
While the news has gained significant traction on social media and across major news outlets, it currently remains unverified as there has been no official confirmation from Anushka Sharma, her representatives, or the franchise’s current owners, Diageo.
Context: The RCB Ownership Shake-up
The rumors emerge at a time when RCB’s ownership landscape is undergoing a massive transformation:
- Strategic Review: Current owner Diageo (United Spirits Ltd.) recently announced a strategic review of its investment in the franchise, signaling that it is open to new investors or a potential full sale by March 2026.
- Record Valuation: Following the men’s team’s historic first IPL title win in 2025 and the women’s team’s 2024 WPL victory, the brand value of the franchise has skyrocketed, with some estimates valuing the team at over $1 billion (₹8,000+ crore).
- Other High-Profile Interest: Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla has publicly expressed interest in submitting a “strong and competitive bid” for the franchise. Additionally, reports suggest actor Ranbir Kapoor may be looking to acquire a 2% stake for approximately ₹300 crore.
Potential Hurdles: “Conflict of Interest”
If the deal moves forward, it would likely face intense scrutiny from the BCCI Ethics Officer:
- The Spouse Rule: BCCI Rule 38 prohibits active players from holding stakes in franchises. As the wife of RCB icon Virat Kohli, Anushka’s investment could be viewed as an “indirect interest” held by the player.
- Precedent: The board maintains strict regulations to ensure that players do not have commercial ownership in the teams they represent to maintain the integrity of the league.
Summary of the Rumored Deal
| Feature | Details |
| Stake Size | 3% of the franchise |
| Estimated Cost | ₹400 Crore |
| Current Status | Unconfirmed/Speculative |
| Potential Partners | Linked with Ranbir Kapoor (rumored 2% stake) |
Conclusion: A New Era for the “Red and Gold”
Whether Anushka Sharma officially joins the board or not, the “Red and Gold” army is clearly entering a new era. The franchise’s recent on-field success has made it one of the most attractive sports assets in the world.
