Tag: SportsBusiness

Sports

Manchester United Co-Owner Makes $1.8 Billion Bid for IPL Champions RCB

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Mumbai, February 2026: In a surprising twist in the world of sports ownership, the Glazer family, co-owners of Manchester United, have placed a $1.8 billion bid for IPL champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The bid, submitted via their investment arm Lancer Capital, tops a list of nine non-binding offers for the franchise, whose men’s and women’s teams are valued at up to $2 billion following their 2025 triumphs.

The sale process was initiated by Diageo in November 2025 and aims to conclude by March 2026, just ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Other notable bidders include Dr. Ranjan Pai and Adar Poonawalla, highlighting the growing appeal of Indian Premier League franchises among high-profile global investors.

Manchester United fans have expressed frustration on social media, criticizing the Glazers for prioritizing cricket investments over the club’s needs. Meanwhile, RCB supporters are wary of a potential “Glazer curse,” fearing that the franchise’s on-field success could be affected under new ownership.

The shortlisted bids will move to a binding offer stage next week, with industry experts suggesting that the final deal could set a record for cricket franchise sales globally. Analysts point out that RCB’s consistent fanbase, strong brand value, and recent championship wins make it a highly sought-after investment opportunity in both Indian and global sports markets.

If successful, the acquisition would mark the Glazers’ entry into the Indian sports ecosystem, further blending cricket and football fandoms under a single investment umbrella.

Sports

KL Rahul Becomes Co-Owner of Goa Guardians Ahead of Prime Volleyball League Season 4

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Indian cricketer KL Rahul has stepped into the world of volleyball as the co-owner of the Goa Guardians franchise, marking a significant development ahead of the Prime Volleyball League (PVL) Season 4, scheduled from October 2–26 in Hyderabad.

Speaking about his new role, Rahul expressed his passion for the sport:

“This feels like a full circle moment for me. PVL is a turning point for the sport in India. The bigger picture is to give volleyball the spotlight and screen time so that more people can watch it and love this sport. Volleyball has always been a sport I enjoyed, and I am excited to lend my voice and play my part in growing the sport in our country.”

The Goa Guardians, who will make their PVL debut this season, are backed by Raju Chekuri, principal owner and founder of Netenrich. Chekuri welcomed Rahul on board, stating:

“We are delighted to have KL Rahul join our ownership group. His passion for volleyball and belief in its potential will help us build a franchise that inspires fans and empowers athletes.”

The Prime Volleyball League, known for its fast-paced, television-first format, has become a vibrant platform for athletes and fans, bringing volleyball into the mainstream sporting conversation in India.

With KL Rahul’s entry into the PVL ecosystem, expectations are high for the Goa Guardians to make a strong impact both on and off the court, inspiring fans and giving volleyball the visibility it deserves.

Sports

ISL 2025–26 Season Put on Hold Amid Uncertainty Over Master Rights Agreement

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

New Delhi, July 2025 — The Indian Super League (ISL) has announced that its 2025–26 season is officially on hold due to ongoing uncertainty over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

The MRA — a crucial document outlining broadcasting, commercial, and operational control of Indian football — is set to expire on December 8, 2025, right in the middle of the typical ISL season calendar. Without a renewed framework in place, organisers are unable to move forward with scheduling, marketing, or team preparations.

In a letter sent to all ISL clubs, FSDL stated:

“In the absence of a confirmed contractual framework beyond December, we find ourselves unable to effectively plan, organise, or commercialise the 2025–26 ISL season. We regret to inform you that we are currently not in a position to proceed and are placing it on hold until further clarity emerges.”

Stalemate in Negotiations

The situation is further complicated by a Supreme Court directive that prohibits the AIFF from entering into fresh negotiations with FSDL until a final verdict is delivered on the AIFF draft constitution case.

Meanwhile, sources close to the matter told ESPN that one of the revised MRA proposals being discussed involved a 60–26–14 ownership split between ISL clubs, FSDL, and AIFF respectively — potentially reshaping the league’s structure and governance.

What’s at Stake?

FSDL, the commercial partner of AIFF since 2010, currently pays ₹50 crore annually to manage and broadcast the ISL and other national football properties. The disruption of this agreement could ripple across the football ecosystem, affecting:

  • Club planning and signings
  • Broadcasting contracts
  • Fan engagement initiatives
  • National team visibility

FSDL has assured clubs it will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates.

A Pivotal Moment for Indian Football

This pause signals one of the most pivotal moments in Indian football’s recent history. The ISL, launched in 2014, has been central to raising the profile of the sport in the country. A prolonged delay could threaten this momentum unless clarity on the MRA is achieved soon.

As fans and stakeholders await a resolution, the spotlight turns to the courts and governing bodies to chart a path forward for India’s premier football league.