In a sign of theIndian Premier League’sgrowing global appeal,US billionaire investor David Blitzerhas reportedly joined the high‑stakes battle to acquire a controlling interest in two of the league’s marquee franchises,Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)andRajasthan Royals (RR). Blitzer — co‑founder ofHarris Blitzer Sports & Entertainmentand a senior figure atBlackstone Group— is conducting due diligence on both teams as part of his bid, according to multiple sources.
Blitzer’s potential entry comes amid a broader flurry of interest from global and domestic investors, includingManchester United co‑chairman Avram Glazerand prominent Indian business leaders such asAdar PoonawallaandRanjan Pai, who are also evaluating bids. RCB, fresh off its2025 IPL title win, is valued at nearly$1.8 billion, while Rajasthan Royals has also seen significant revenue growth, contributing to its attractiveness as an investment.
The escalating competition underlines how IPL teams — boosted by record franchise valuations, sponsorship deals and media rights revenues — have become coveted global sports assets. Blitzer’s growing sports portfolio already includes stakes in major North American leagues, and owning an IPL team would further expand his international footprint. Final binding bids for the franchises are expected bymid‑March, ahead of theIPL 2026 season starting March 26, with theBoard of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)required to approve any sale.
