IPL Business Valuation Surpasses $18 Billion, Experiencing 13% Annual Growth
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has experienced a remarkable surge in its business value, soaring 13% to reach $18.5 billion, equivalent to nearly Rs 1.6 lakh crore. A recent report by investment bank Houlihan Lokey highlights that the league’s brand value has also risen by 14%, now standing at nearly $4 billion (around Rs 33,000 crore). The report underscores the IPL’s growing influence not only in cricket but also in the broader realms of sports commercialization and fan engagement.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Leads Brand Value
In a significant development, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has emerged as the top team in brand value among the ten franchises competing in the IPL. Following their victory in 2025, RCB’s brand value is now estimated at $269 million. This marks a historic achievement for the franchise, which has been a part of the league since its inception 18 years ago. The Mumbai Indians follow closely with a brand value of $242 million, while the Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders hold values of $235 million and $227 million, respectively. The report emphasizes that RCB’s rise reflects the IPL’s dynamic nature and its ability to foster competitive franchises.
IPL’s Commercial Success and Global Impact
The IPL continues to set benchmarks in sports commercialization, as noted in the Houlihan Lokey report. The league’s success is attributed to record auctions, landmark sponsorships, and technological advancements that enhance the viewer experience. The report describes the IPL as a “global phenomenon” that transcends traditional cricketing boundaries, reshaping fan engagement and commercial models. The league’s influence has sparked a wave of short-format leagues worldwide, significantly altering the modern cricketing calendar and embedding itself in contemporary popular culture.
Advertising Revenue and Viewership Growth
The financial landscape of the IPL has also seen substantial growth, particularly in advertising revenue, which surged by 50% to approximately $600 million (around Rs 5,000 crore) during the 2025 season. Viewership numbers have similarly skyrocketed, with the final match between RCB and Punjab Kings attracting over 678 million views. This figure surpasses the viewership of the India-Pakistan clash during the ICC Championship earlier this year, highlighting the IPL’s ability to captivate audiences on a massive scale.
Robust Revenue Model and Cost Management
The report outlines the IPL’s revenue model as a blend of predictable cash flows and cost discipline, which is rare in the global sports arena. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has secured long-term media rights contracts and sponsorship deals, ensuring stable revenue streams. Notably, around 80% of costs for top franchises are covered before the tournament begins, thanks to a salary cap of Rs 120 crore per team. This structure not only protects against wage inflation but also promotes competitive balance among teams. The IPL’s financial framework is viewed as superior to that of other major leagues, such as the English Premier League and the NBA, making it an attractive option for institutional investors seeking growth in the entertainment sector.
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