Kohli’s Contract Refusal Sparks Massive Speculation – In the weeks following RCB’s historic IPL 2025 title win, social media has been buzzing with rumors about Virat Kohli’s future in the Indian Premier League. The buzz began when reports surfaced that Kohli had declined to renew a commercial contract linked to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s branding and promotional deals for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
This refusal led to widespread speculation:
- Is Kohli retiring from the IPL?
- Will he move to another franchise?
- Is he cutting ties with RCB after 18 years?
What Is the ‘Commercial Contract’ & Why It’s Misleading
To understand the situation clearly, it’s important to separate playing contracts from commercial contracts:
| Contract Type | What It Involves | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Playing Contract | Player’s on-field participation in IPL | ✅ Active |
| Commercial Contract | Branding, promotional work, endorsements | ❌ Declined |
Kohli’s refusal was only for the commercial part — which includes brand advertisements, sponsor shoots, and marketing campaigns during the IPL season. This has no impact on his availability or commitment as a player.
Read more: Highest Wicket-Takers for RCB in IPL History
Aakash Chopra Clears the Air
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra strongly responded to the rumors, stating:
“He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise.”
Chopra also suggested that Kohli might have refused this deal due to potential ownership changes in RCB, making it wise to delay signing until things are finalized.
Why Did This Create Retirement Buzz?
- Kohli recently retired from both Test cricket and T20 Internationals.
- He has been limiting media appearances and staying away from off-field promotions.
- The refusal to renew a branding contract coincided with RCB’s planning phase ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
These factors combined triggered speculation that Kohli may be stepping back entirely.
But What Has Kohli Actually Said?
After RCB’s maiden title win in IPL 2025, Kohli had clearly stated:
“I will play for RCB till my last day in the IPL.”
This public statement directly contradicts all rumors of him leaving or retiring. Kohli is still a core part of RCB’s on-field strategy and remains the face of the franchise.
Kohli’s Impact in IPL 2025
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 15 |
| Runs Scored | 657 |
| Average | 54.75 |
| Strike Rate | 144.71 |
| Half-Centuries | 8 |
| Highest Score | 73* |
Kohli’s consistency was crucial to RCB lifting their first-ever IPL trophy in 2025, making him more valuable than ever.
LIke to know? RCB IPL 2026 Released Players List
RCB’s Current Stand & Next Steps
- No official announcement from RCB about Kohli leaving.
- Franchise is expected to retain Kohli ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
- The player retention deadline is November 15, 2025.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that RCB may be undergoing an ownership transition, possibly influencing Kohli’s decision to delay commercial obligations.
Read more: – Top Run Scorers for RCB in IPL History
Conclusion: Kohli Not Leaving RCB — Only Stepping Back From Branding
As of now, Virat Kohli is not retiring from the IPL and not parting ways with RCB. The contract he declined was purely for commercial reasons, likely temporary and tied to sponsor negotiations or ownership changes.
Until official word says otherwise, fans can rest assured — King Kohli is very much expected to suit up for RCB in IPL 2026.
