IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are at the center of a major sponsorship battle, with Karnataka-based dairy brand Nandini stepping up to challenge Amul for association ahead of the 2026 season. According to reports, the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), which owns the Nandini brand, is actively exploring a title sponsorship and official partnership with RCB, intensifying competition with Amul, the team’s sponsor in the previous season.

KMF has reportedly floated a tender to appoint an agency authorised by IPL authorities to facilitate Nandini’s association with RCB. The proposed partnership would allow Nandini to use the team’s name, logo and trademarks across product packaging, advertising and public relations campaigns during the IPL window.

The strategy goes beyond logo placement. As part of the proposed tie-up, Nandini plans to set up branded kiosks at RCB’s home matches in IPL 2026 to boost on-ground visibility and drive in-stadium sales. The brand also aims to leverage RCB players for digital promotions across platforms such as Instagram, X and Facebook, alongside outdoor advertising formats including hoardings and large-scale visuals.

KMF Managing Director B Shivaswamy stated that the federation is keen to sponsor RCB as the team represents Karnataka, adding that the brand is exploring the use of Indian captain Virat Kohli and two other RCB players for promotional campaigns.

Through this association, KMF aims to accelerate Nandini’s expansion in key markets like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai, capitalising on the IPL’s national reach. In parallel, KMF has also floated a tender for digital gantry advertising at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, reinforcing its broader visibility push.

The move builds on KMF’s growing sports marketing portfolio, which includes sponsorships in international cricket, Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian Super League.