“Blitzer’s move could further strengthen the league’s global investment footprint”
US billionaire David Blitzer has officially entered the race to buy a stake in an Indian Premier League (IPL) team ahead of the 2026 season. Blitzer, a senior executive at Blackstone and co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, is exploring investments in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Reports suggest that RCB is valued at around $1.8 billion, reflecting the growing financial power of the IPL. Blitzer’s investment firm, BOLT Ventures, has moved into advanced discussions and is currently conducting due diligence on the franchises.
Blitzer already owns stakes in several major sports teams, including the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. Adding an IPL franchise would expand his global sports portfolio into one of the world’s most lucrative cricket leagues.
However, he faces strong competition from other international and Indian investors. Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer and Indian business leaders like Adar Poonawalla and Ranjan Pai are also reportedly interested. Any deal will require approval from the BCCI, with final bids expected in mid-March.
The move highlights the IPL’s growing global appeal, as more international billionaires compete to enter the fast-growing Indian cricket market.