From RCB To CSK: 3 Most Valued IPL Franchises Of 2025

Rajgeeta Yadav

Top 3 Valued IPL Franchises Of 2025 Season [@CricCrazyJohns and @gemsofbabus_/x.com]Top 3 Valued IPL Franchises Of 2025 Season [@CricCrazyJohns and @gemsofbabus_/x.com]

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become more than just cricket; it’s one of the most valuable sports leagues in the world. Over the years, it has grown massively in terms of business, fan base, and global attention. And in 2025, the numbers say it all.

A new report by global investment bank Houlihan Lokey shows that the total value of the IPL has risen by 12.9%, now touching USD 18.5 billion. The brand value of the league itself, without even counting the teams, has also jumped by 13.8% to USD 3.9 billion. Clearly, IPL is not just scoring runs, but also raking in big bucks.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also made impressive gains. By selling associate sponsor slots to My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay and CEAT, the board earned ₹1,485 crore, which is a 25% jump from the last cycle. On top of that, Tata Group extended its title sponsorship deal till 2028, signing a massive ₹2,500 crore agreement over five years.

But what about the individual teams? Which franchise is leading the pack in 2025? Let’s take a look at the top three IPL franchises this season, based on their brand value.

Top 3 Most Expensive IPL Franchises In 2025

1. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru [Source: @SURYA2524/X.com]Royal Challengers Bengaluru [Source: @SURYA2524/X.com]

The top spot this year belongs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). After years of trying, RCB finally won their first-ever IPL title in 2025, which had a huge impact on their brand. Their brand value rose to USD 269 million (₹2,259 crore), up from USD 227 million last year. Their loyal nationwide fanbase, strong presence on social media, and engaging online content helped them climb to the top. RCB’s merchandise sales and their modern approach to digital marketing also played a key role in their rise.

2. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians [Source: @mipaltan/X.com]Mumbai Indians [Source: @mipaltan/X.com]

Close behind RCB is Mumbai Indians (MI), who have moved up to second place this year. Their brand value increased from USD 204 million in 2024 to USD 242 million (₹2,032 crore) in 2025. Even though they didn’t win the title, their consistent brand strength, youth programs like MI Junior, and powerful digital campaigns helped them stay in the spotlight. MI’s star players and solid business structure under the Ambani family continue to keep their brand strong and respected.

3. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings [Source: @cricbuzz/X.com]Chennai Super Kings [Source: @cricbuzz/X.com]

In third place is Chennai Super Kings (CSK), whose brand value touched USD 235 million (₹1,972 crore). However, they dropped from the top spot due to a tough 2025 season and a shift in leadership following MS Dhoni’s gradual exit from the game. While they still enjoy a massive and loyal fan base, especially in smaller towns and continue to sell a lot of merchandise, the team’s poor on-field performance slightly affected their brand growth this year.

IPL 2025 Breaks Records Again

The popularity of the IPL is still unmatched. The IPL 2025 Final drew more than 67.8 crore viewers on JioCinema, which is even higher than the India vs Pakistan match during the Champions Trophy 2025.