Overview

• RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan reported that Virat Kohli has not renewed a commercial contract connected to Royal Challengers Bangalore ahead of the IPL 2026 pre‑mega‑auction.
• Mainstream outlets echoed the report, but there has been no official word from Kohli or RCB on his playing future or the status of the contract.
• Former India batter Aakash Chopra said the contract in question is a promotional deal separate from a playing agreement and stated Kohli would still turn out for RCB.
• Juglan also claimed Kohli declined an offer to resume RCB captaincy last year and backed Rajat Patidar, who went on to captain the side to its first IPL title.
• The timing before the mega‑auction has fueled debate over branding and planning, though the broader speculation about retirement remains unverified and the situation is developing.