Key Takeaways
- David Blitzer is competing to acquire a majority stake in IPL franchises, specifically Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals.
- His team has entered the second round of negotiations, with final bids expected by mid-March 2026.
- Rival bidders include Avram Glazer and other undisclosed Indian business figures.
- Global investment firms like Blackstone and KKR are also showing interest in the bidding process.
- The IPL continues to attract international investors, emphasizing its value in the sports market.
David Blitzer IPL bidding efforts have entered a competitive phase. The U.S. billionaire is seeking to acquire a majority stake in an Indian Premier League franchise. Sources with direct knowledge confirmed his participation in ongoing negotiations.
Blitzer is co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment. His portfolio includes ownership stakes in several U.S. professional sports teams. His family office, BOLT Ventures, is managing the IPL discussions.
David Blitzer IPL Bidding Targets Two Teams
David Blitzer IPL bidding currently involves two franchises. These are Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. Both teams are engaged in talks with Blitzer’s group.
Blitzer’s team has advanced to a second round of negotiations. Due diligence is underway for both franchises. Final bids are expected by mid-March 2026.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru is valued at approximately $1.8 billion, according to one source. The franchise is fully owned by Diageo’s India division. The company has classified the team as non-core to its beverages business.
Rajasthan Royals is majority owned by London-based investor Manoj Badale.
David Blitzer IPL Bidding Faces Competition
David Blitzer IPL bidding faces rival interest. Avram Glazer has submitted initial offers for both franchises. Glazer is co-chairman of Manchester United and owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Other Indian business figures are also participating in the bidding process. Their identities were not disclosed.
Global investment firms are monitoring the situation. Blackstone has shown interest in Royal Challengers Bengaluru. KKR is also evaluating potential involvement.
Indian Premier League Context
The Indian Premier League remains one of cricket’s most valuable tournaments. The 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 26. A total of 84 matches are planned.
The ongoing David Blitzer IPL bidding highlights continued international investor interest in IPL franchise ownership.
