The Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached a staggering business valuation of $18.5 billion, according to a new report by U.S. investment bank Houlihan Lokey. The report highlights the IPL’s rise as a global sports powerhouse, with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerging as the wealthiest franchise, overtaking Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
RCB, led by star batter Virat Kohli, claimed their first IPL title this year and now hold a brand value of $269 million. Mumbai Indians follow with $242 million, and Chennai Super Kings are third with $235 million. The total brand value of the 10-team league has surged by 13.8% in just one year, reaching $3.9 billion.
According to Houlihan Lokey’s Harsh Talikoti, the IPL is “a global phenomenon” that has outgrown cricket, establishing itself as a leading sports and entertainment property. He noted the league’s success in attracting global investors, record-breaking media rights deals, and diverse brand partnerships.
The 2025 IPL final, held at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, drew over 678 million views on JioHotstar—more than the India-Pakistan clash in this year’s Champions Trophy. The viewership milestone reflects the league’s massive digital reach and entertainment appeal.
Since its launch in 2008, the IPL has inspired a wave of franchise-based leagues in India across sports like kabaddi, badminton, boxing, and even poker. Its unique blend of cricket, showbiz, and Bollywood continues to set it apart as one of the world’s most valuable and influential sporting events.