Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star Virat Kohli's contract situation has become a hot topic amid swirling rumors of a change in franchise ownership. The cricket legend has reportedly declined to sign a commercial contract renewal ahead of the 2026 IPL season, creating widespread speculation about his future with the team he has represented for 18 seasons. However, experts emphasize that this refusal relates specifically to commercial agreements—not his playing contract—indicating Kohli's continued commitment to RCB on the field.
Contract Confusion Sparks Speculation
Contrary to widespread assumptions, Kohli's current contract dilemma pertains to what is known as the "commercial contract." Unlike the playing contract, this separate agreement governs image rights, endorsements, and promotional activities tied to the franchise. Former Indian cricketer and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra clarified that the refusal to sign a commercial contract does not imply Kohli’s exit from RCB as a player. On his YouTube channel, Chopra explained, "He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB."
Reports reveal Kohli advised RCB's management to "plan their future without using his face," underscoring his reluctance to be involved in promotional activities at present. This move, many analysts say, is strategic and not a withdrawal from playing commitments, especially after Kohli's instrumental role in leading RCB to their maiden IPL title in 2025.
Ownership Uncertainty Influences Contract Decisions
The backdrop to this commercial contract hesitation is the speculation surrounding a potential change in RCB's ownership. Parent company Diageo has reportedly decided to sell the franchise, with former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi confirming on social media that the owners have "finally decided to take it off their balance sheet and sell it."
Diageo is seeking a valuation around $2 billion, with investment bank Citi serving as the transaction advisor. Among potential buyers, Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla has emerged as a front-runner, sharing on social media, "At the right valuation, @RCBTweets is a great team."
Industry insiders explain that during transitions of franchise ownership, players and their agents generally avoid signing commercial agreements, which involve significant financial and brand commitments. This helps explain Kohli's decision to delay signing until ownership stabilizes. Experts anticipate that once new owners take control and provide clarity, Kohli is likely to finalize his commercial contracts accordingly.
What This Means for Fans and RCB
Fans can rest assured that Kohli remains an integral part of RCB's playing squad for the upcoming IPL seasons. While the commercial contract situation is unfolding amidst corporate negotiations, it does not affect his cricketing role or team presence.
With a new ownership potentially bringing refreshed strategies and investment, both Kohli and RCB may enter a new chapter together, building on their historic IPL championship win in 2025. Until then, the franchise and Kohli appear to be managing their professional engagements cautiously, awaiting resolution on the business side.
This contract matter highlights the complex interplay between sportsmanship and corporate management in modern cricket franchises, underscoring how player careers intersect with franchise business dynamics.