The Indian Premier League has a new valuation landmark. Rajasthan Royals, one of the IPL’s founding franchises, have been sold to a consortium led by Kal Somani for USD 1.6 billion.
The deal makes the Jaipur-based side the first IPL team to cross the USD 1 billion mark in franchise value.
Somani, who already held a minority stake in the team, beat out a competing bid from the Times Group to secure full ownership, backed by Walmart-linked investors and prominent American business families.
Somani-Led Consortium Beats Times Group to Secure Full Ownership of Rajasthan Royals
Kal Somani, formerly a minority stakeholder, will now lead a consortium including Walmart-linked investors and top American business families.
The group secured 100% ownership of Rajasthan Royals, making it the first IPL team to surpass a USD 1 billion valuation. The deal will take effect after IPL 2026 Season, with the current owner, Manoj Badale, stepping aside once the formalities are complete.
USD 1.6 Billion Deal Sets New IPL Valuation Record, Signals Growing Global Investor Interest
The price tag sets a new benchmark for IPL franchise valuations. Previously, the Lucknow Super Giants were bought by the RPSG Group for USD 940 million, while a majority stake in the Gujarat Titans was acquired by the Torrent Group for USD 575 million. The Royals’ sale comfortably surpasses both figures.
The involvement of Walmart-linked investors signals how far the IPL’s appeal has spread beyond Indian borders. Since its launch in 2008, the league has steadily drawn institutional and corporate interest from global markets, and this deal reinforces the view among international investors that IPL franchises are long-term, high-value assets.
IPL 2026 to Continue Under Current Rajasthan Royals Management
Despite the change in ownership, the Royals will play out IPL 2026 under existing arrangements. Current leadership under Manoj Badale is expected to continue until the conclusion of the 2026 season, after which Somani will formally assume charge.
The team, which won the inaugural IPL title in 2008, is based in Jaipur and has a loyal fanbase across Rajasthan. With fresh capital and global backing, the new ownership is expected to usher in a new phase of investment and ambition for the franchise.
