The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed a significant surge in both its commercial and brand valuations in 2025, according to a recent report by global investment bank Houlihan Lokey. Valued now at a staggering $18.5 billion (approx. ₹1.6 lakh crore), the IPL has strengthened its position as a global sports and entertainment powerhouse.
The report highlights a 13% rise in the overall business value of the IPL this year, accompanied by a 14% boost in brand value, now pegged at $4 billion (around ₹33,000 crore). At the forefront of this growth is Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has emerged as the most valuable IPL franchise following a historic season.
RCB Tops Franchise Rankings After Maiden Title
For the first time in its 18-year history, RCB lifted the coveted IPL trophy this season. This on-field success, coupled with strategic branding and strong fan engagement, propelled the team to the top spot in franchise valuations. RCB is now worth $269 million, surpassing long-time leaders Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
The report credits RCB’s ascent to consistent performances, charismatic leadership under Rajat Patidar, and the influence of high-profile players. Off the field, partnerships with emerging brands like tech firm Nothing and a focus on digital and regional outreach in Karnataka played a key role in strengthening the team’s brand equity.
The IPL 2025 final between RCB and Punjab Kings drew record-breaking viewership, crossing 678 million views and becoming the most-watched broadcast of the year — even outpacing the India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy.
Top Four Franchises Maintain Lead
Mumbai Indians are now the second most valuable franchise at $242 million, followed closely by CSK at $235 million. Despite finishing at the bottom of the table this season, CSK’s value remains high due to unwavering fan support and the enduring legacy of MS Dhoni. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take fourth place with a brand value of $227 million.
These four franchises continue to dominate the IPL in terms of brand recognition, fan following, and commercial appeal.
IPL’s Global Business Appeal Strengthens
Described as “a global phenomenon,” the IPL continues to redefine the boundaries of sports and entertainment. According to Houlihan Lokey, the league’s robust business model — anchored in lucrative media rights, pre-season sponsorship deals, and strict salary caps — gives it a commercial advantage over global leagues like the English Premier League (EPL) and the NBA.
This season saw a massive 50% rise in advertising revenue, reaching nearly $600 million (₹5,000 crore). Top franchises now generate annual revenues between ₹650 crore and ₹700 crore, with about 80% of their expenses covered even before the season kicks off, thanks to guaranteed media and sponsor income. Salary caps of ₹120 crore per team ensure competitive balance and financial sustainability.
IPL’s Influence Goes Beyond Cricket
The league’s success is also inspiring the creation of similar short-format tournaments in other countries. With its growing digital footprint and increasing global viewership, the IPL is attracting interest from institutional investors and private equity firms, who now view franchise ownership as a viable, long-term investment opportunity.
Houlihan Lokey concludes that the IPL is not just a cricket league but a pioneering business model in sports entertainment. RCB’s triumph this season is seen as a turning point, potentially reshaping the power dynamics among the league’s elite franchises.
As the IPL continues to grow on all fronts — financial, digital, and global — it sets a new benchmark for professional sports leagues around the world.