Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), one of the most celebrated franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has announced ambitious plans to broaden its cricket ecosystem. The franchise, valued at $117 million, seeks to engage fans beyond the cricket field by integrating merchandise, e-gaming, fitness platforms, and more.
Key Developments:
- Diversified Ecosystem: RCB aims to create a multi-faceted sports platform, incorporating merchandise, stadium bookings, online fitness platforms, and e-gaming.
- Strong Brand Growth: With a brand value growth of 67% in 2024, RCB is the third-most valuable IPL team after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
Commitment to Women’s Cricket:
- RCB’s women’s cricket team clinched the Women’s Premier League (WPL) title in 2024 during its debut season.
- Acquired for ₹901 crore in 2023, the women’s franchise showcases RCB’s long-term commitment to promoting women’s cricket.
- Efforts are underway to groom women players into stars and strengthen their presence through social media and fan engagement initiatives.
Financial Success:
RCB posted a ₹221.8 crore profit after tax in FY24, fueled by rising media rights revenue from IPL matches. With ₹105 crore earned per game in 2023, RCB’s financial trajectory is stronger than ever.
Focus on Grassroots Sports Development:
RCB is in talks with policymakers to address the lack of infrastructure for sports other than cricket, aiming to inspire youth and elevate India’s sports landscape.
Looking Ahead:
With initiatives like expanding match schedules in Bengaluru and enhancing fan experiences, RCB is setting the stage for deeper fan engagement. COO Rajesh Menon emphasized, “Our women’s team is inspiring millions, and we are committed to making cricket an inclusive sport for all.”
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