US Billionaire David Blitzer Joins Race to Buy RCB and RR Ahead of IPL 2026

February 27, 2026: US billionaire David Blitzer, who is the co-owner of the NBA franchise Philadelphia 76ers, has entered the race to acquire an Indian Premier League (IPL) team. Two IPL franchises are currently open for new investment, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) attracting potential buyers.

According to reports from Reuters, Blitzer is conducting due diligence on both RCB and RR before making any final investment decision. Among the franchises, RCB is considered the more valuable team, with an estimated valuation of around $1.8 billion (approximately ₹16,356 crore).

About David Blitzer’s Global Sports Investments

David Blitzer is the co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and also holds an executive position at the global asset management company Blackstone Group. His sports investment portfolio includes stakes in multiple global leagues such as the Premier League, Major League Soccer, the Bundesliga, and the National Football League.

🚨RCB SALE PROCESS🚨

David Blitzer enters the RCB bidding race 🔥

- Blitzer’s global sports portfolio includes Philadelphia 76ers (NBA) and New Jersey Devils (NHL). pic.twitter.com/I18ThHEmJ4

— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) February 26, 2026

Other Investors Interested in Buying RCB

Apart from Blitzer, other global investors have also shown interest in IPL franchises. Joel Glazer, co-owner of Manchester United, has reportedly submitted initial bids for both RCB and RR.

In India, business figures such as Adar Poonawalla and Ranjan Pai are also exploring investment opportunities in RCB.

The advisory and bidding process is being managed by financial institutions. Raine Group is advising Rajasthan Royals, while Citigroup is handling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru transaction process. Notably, Raine Group also helped the Glazer family during their 2025 stake sale involving Jim Ratcliffe.