Royal Challengers Bengaluru Surge Past Chennai Super Kings to Lead IPL Franchise Valuations

The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues its ascent as a lucrative business venture, now valued at USD 18.5 billion, marking a 12.9 percent increase, as per a study by Houlihan Lokey, Inc. The IPL's brand value alone has surged by 13.8 percent to reach USD 3.9 billion in the past year.

First-time winners RCB have displaced CSK at the top spot with a brand value of USD 269 million. © BCCI/IPL

In a noteworthy shift, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), fresh off their maiden title win, have dethroned the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to claim the top spot. RCB's brand value now stands at USD 269 million, a significant leap from USD 227 million the previous year. CSK, on the other hand, experienced a marginal increase to USD 235 million (from USD 231 million in 2024) and landed in third place, following a disappointing season where they finished at the bottom.

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have also seen a rise in their valuation, climbing to second place with USD 242 million, up from USD 204 million in 2024. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) recorded the highest year-on-year growth, with a 39.6 percent increase in brand value compared to 2024. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) closely followed with a rise of over 34 percent.

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), two-time champions, occupy the fourth position with a brand value of USD 222 million. SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) are in fifth place with a valuation of USD 154 million. Among the remaining teams, Delhi Capitals (DC) are ranked sixth with a brand value of USD 152 million, followed by Rajasthan Royals (RR) in seventh place with USD 146 million. Gujarat Titans (GT), under new ownership last season, are eighth with a valuation of USD 142 million.

PBKS's impressive 39.6 percent growth, reaching USD 141 million and securing ninth place, is largely attributed to their strong performance as runners-up under their new captain, Shreyas Iyer. Interestingly, Lucknow Super Giants, despite being the costliest team, are positioned tenth with a brand value of USD 122 million.

Harsh Talikoti, Director of Financial and Valuation Advisory at Houlihan Lokey, stated, "The IPL continues to set benchmarks in the sports business. Franchise valuations have soared, media rights deals have reached record highs, and brand partnerships have diversified across sectors."