United Spirits shares gain 3% on reports of potential RCB stake sale by parent Diageo

Synopsis

United Spirits shares: According to the report, Diageo is considering several options regarding its stake in the prominent cricket franchise, which it holds via United Spirits. The British liquor major is said to be in talks with advisers to assess the possibility of selling either a partial or complete stake in RCB.

Shares of United Spirits Ltd (USL) jumped as much as 3.2% to hit a day’s high of Rs 1,644 on the BSE in Tuesday’s session, following a Bloomberg report that its parent company Diageo Plc is considering a potential stake sale in the IPL 2025-winning franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

According to the report, Diageo is exploring various options for its ownership in the high-profile cricket team, which it controls through United Spirits. The British liquor giant is reportedly in discussions with advisers to evaluate the sale of either a partial or full stake in RCB.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that Diageo may seek a valuation of up to $2 billion for the franchise.

While the deliberations are still at an early stage and no final decision has been made, the possibility of a stake sale has drawn strong market interest.

The development comes amid rising regulatory scrutiny in India over the indirect promotion of alcohol and tobacco brands in sports. India’s health ministry has been pushing to curb such promotions in the IPL, prompting companies like Diageo to reassess their brand exposure through sports sponsorships.

RCB’s ownership has had a storied past. Originally acquired by beer baron Vijay Mallya, the franchise became part of Diageo’s portfolio following its acquisition of Mallya’s spirits business.

RCB recently clinched its first-ever IPL title in 2025, a milestone that has significantly boosted the team’s brand value and commercial appeal.

The news of a possible sale also comes in the wake of a tragic incident during RCB's victory celebration in Bengaluru, where a stampede led to the deaths of at least 11 people. The event has drawn criticism from local authorities, increasing pressure on the franchise’s management and its corporate stakeholders.

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Industry watchers believe that a sale could reshape IPL franchise valuations, especially given the league’s meteoric rise as one of the fastest-growing sports properties in the world. The Indian Premier League is now valued at over $6.2 billion, with short-format matches drawing massive viewership both in India and internationally.

For Diageo, which is facing headwinds in its largest market, the U.S., due to slowing premium liquor sales and tariff impacts, a divestment could free up capital and help streamline its global operations.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

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