The value of IPL as a business has surged by 6.5% to $16.4 billion ( Rs 135,000 crore), thereby leading to an increase of 6.3% to $3.4 billion (Rs 28,000 crore)  over the past year, as per the latest findings of IPL Brand Valuation Study by Houlihan Lokey Inc, a global investment bank. 

In terms of valuation, despite failing to make it to the playoffs in 2024, with a brand value of $231.0 million, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) continues to be the most valued franchisee, achieving a growth of 9% from the previous year, as per the report. IPL 2024 winners, Kolkata Knight Riders, clocked the highest growth at 19.30% rise from 2023. The report stated that KKR replaced Mumbai Indians to secure the third spot with a brand value of $216.0 million. 

“The IPL has solidified its status as a premier sports league on the global stage, showcasing an exceptional blend of sportsmanship, entertainment, and commercial success. The league’s growth is not just in numbers but also in its innovative approach to engaging fans and leveraging digital platforms. This year’s increase in value underscores the IPL’s strategic initiatives and its robust fan base,”Harsh Talikoti, senior vice – president, Corporate Valuation Advisory Services, Houlihan Lokey, said. 

Moreover, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) which ranked second, reported a brand worth of $227.0 million. The change in fortunes for RCB, from when they were placed 10th after the first half of the season to eventually qualifying for playoffs, also ensured that they became the most watched and spoken about franchise in this year’s IPL, as the report. Furthermore, Mumbai Indians (MI), trails in the fourth place with a brand value of $204.0 million. As for Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) as the fifth position, the franchise posted a brand value worth $133.0 million.

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Next, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), with a brand value of $132.0 million stood sixth on the list. As for the rest of the teams, Delhi ranked seventh with a brand value of $131.0 million, while Gujarat Titans, ranked eighth with a brand value of $124.00 million. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings (PBKS) clocked a brand value of $101.0 million and Lucknow Super Giants LSG’s brand value stood at $91.0 million.

“The eight legacy teams that have been a part of the IPL for a long time, are now able to reap substantial profits from both the central pool’s income distribution and their own franchisee revenues from sponsorships, gate receipts, and merchandise sales. For the same reason, private equity investments have become increasingly prevalent in the IPL ecosystem in recent years with CVC Capital and Redbird Capital acquiring stakes in IPL franchisees”, Talikoti added. 

Tata secured to be the title sponsor of IPL for a further five-year period from 2024 until 2028 for approximately $300 million (Rs 2,500 crore)  paying almost 50% more than the previous deal of Rs 335 crore per season. Another major agreement partnership was inked with Qatar Airways for around $9.0 million (Rs 75 crore) for a three-year contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

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