RCB surpasses CSK as IPL's top team; league now valued at $18.5 billion
By : Krishna Mishra
The Indian Premier League (IPL) witnessed a significant surge in its business and brand value in 2025, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) crowned as the most valuable franchise for the first time in its 18-year history.
According to a report by investment bank Houlihan Lokey, the IPL's business valuation jumped 13% this year to $18.5 billion (₹1.6 lakh crore). Meanwhile, the brand value of the league grew by 14%, touching $4 billion (₹33,000 crore).
RCB's maiden IPL title win in 2025, combined with strong off-field growth, propelled its brand value to $269 million, surpassing long-time leaders Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
Key Factors Behind RCB’s Rise:
Title win and record-breaking 678 million viewership during the final
Leadership under Rajat Patidar
Strategic partnerships with tech brand Nothing
Strong local fan engagement in Karnataka
Solid social media and event-driven marketing campaigns
Current Franchise Brand Rankings (2025):
RCB – $269 million
Mumbai Indians – $242 million
Chennai Super Kings – $235 million
Kolkata Knight Riders – $227 million
Despite finishing last this season, CSK continues to enjoy massive support due to MS Dhoni's enduring popularity and strong brand equity.
IPL's Global Standing and Business Model:
The report dubbed IPL a “global phenomenon”, seamlessly blending sports, business, and entertainment
With salary caps (₹120 crore) and media rights-driven revenue, IPL enjoys higher profit margins than the NBA and English Premier League
In 2025, ad revenues touched $600 million, up 50% from last year
Financial Strength of IPL Teams:
Top franchises cover 80% of costs before the season
Annual earnings per top team: ₹650–700 crore
Attracting institutional investors and private equity as long-term assets
The report also highlighted IPL's growing role in shaping global cricket schedules and inspiring short-format leagues across the world.
In conclusion, RCB’s 2025 triumph and commercial leap underscore a new era in IPL's power dynamics, while the league itself continues to redefine the benchmarks in sports business worldwide.