Source: Adapted from the Houlihan Lokey 2025 IPL Brand Valuation Study
The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to redefine what a cricket league can be, both on and off the field. According to the 2025 Brand Valuation Study by Houlihan Lokey, the IPL’s business value has surged to US$18.5 billion, a 12.9% year-on-year increase. Meanwhile, its standalone brand value now stands at US$3.9 billion, up 13.8% from last year.
IPL’s Commercial Ecosystem Expands
The league’s commercial gravity is growing stronger. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secured ₹1,485 crore in associate sponsorships from brands like My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay, and CEAT—a 25% jump from the previous cycle. Tata Group also extended its title sponsorship through 2028 in a deal worth $300 million.
The 2025 season saw record-breaking engagement:
- JioHotstar logged 1.37 billion views during opening weekend, a 35% increase YoY.
- Star Sports attracted 253 million unique TV viewers.
- The final, featuring RCB vs PBKS, surpassed the India-Pakistan clash in views with 67.8 crore impressions.
Franchise Brand Rankings
RCB have leapfrogged CSK to claim the top spot in brand value at US$269 million following their maiden title win. Mumbai Indians climbed to second place at US$242 million, while CSK dropped to third with US$235 million, reflecting a tough season on the pitch.
Here’s the updated franchise brand value list:
- RCB – $269M
- MI – $242M
- CSK – $235M
- KKR – $227M
- SRH – $154M
- DC – $152M
- RR – $146M
- GT – $142M
- PBKS – $141M (39.6% YoY growth)
- LSG – $122M
Strategic Commentary
“The IPL is no longer just a tournament; it’s a billion-dollar IP platform that blends sport, entertainment, and commerce,” said Harsh Talikoti, Director at Houlihan Lokey. “It represents a diversified, high-yield asset class capable of reshaping cricket on a global scale.”
Franchise leaders echoed similar sentiments. Satish Menon, CEO of PBKS, highlighted the shift to operating as a “media-sport brand” rather than just a team—leveraging multiple leagues, digital content, and global sponsorships to build enduring value.
Strategic Takeaways for the Industry
- Valuation-Driven Business Models: IPL franchises are now structured to grow like high-growth startups, with diversified revenue lines across media, merchandise, ticketing, and sponsorship.
- Platform Over Product: Success is no longer defined solely by match wins but by the ability to activate across OTT, fan engagement platforms, and brand IP.
- Investor Magnet: With visibility, secure revenues, and high ROI, the IPL is becoming an attractive proposition for both institutional and celebrity investors.
- Content as Core: Teams like RCB and PBKS are exploring fan-led narratives and digital storytelling to deepen loyalty.
Final Word
The IPL 2025 cycle is proof that cricket’s commercial epicenter has shifted. With skyrocketing valuations, viewership highs, and brand-first franchises, the league offers a masterclass in turning sport into sustainable global business.
