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RCB Over CSK Once More; Becomes Most Valuable IPL Team In Latest Brand Valuation Study

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

RCB and MS Dhoni [Source: ,@Sporcaster,@AmitKumar0802/x.com]RCB and MS Dhoni [Source: ,@Sporcaster,@AmitKumar0802/x.com]

Once again, the fierce rivalry between the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has taken centre stage, this time in the boardrooms rather than on the cricket field. In a recent revelation, RCB has finally dethroned their arch-rivals, CSK, to claim the coveted position as the IPL's most valuable franchise, marking a historic shift in the league's commercial landscape.

The Indian Premier League reached unprecedented financial heights in 2025, with its business valuation increasing 12.9% year-over-year to a staggering $18.5 billion $1.56 trillion), according to the latest brand valuation study by Houlihan Lokey. The league's standalone brand value witnesses an even more impressive surge of 13.8% to ₹3.9 billion, propelled by record-breaking viewership figures and exponentially growing advertising revenues that have solidified IPL 's position among the world's most lucrative sporting enterprises.

RCB Claims Top Spot in Historic Franchise Reshuffle

In a dramatic shift, Royal Challengers Bengaluru dethroned Chennai Super Kings to become the most valuable IPL franchise following their maiden title win. RCB's brand value jumped to $269 million from $227 million in 2024, while Mumbai Indians secured second place at $242 million. CSK slipped to third at ₹235 million after their most disappointing bottom-of-the-table finish.

Punjab Kings emerged as the season's biggest winners, registering a remarkable 39.6% increase in brand value to $141 million, fueled by their runner-up finish and viral digital campaigns.

Revenue Streams Hit Record Heights

The IPL's advertising revenues crossed $600 million (₹5,000 crore) this year, marking a substantial 50% jump from 2024. The BCCI's associate sponsorship deals with My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay, and CEAT generated ₹1,485 crore, while Tata's title sponsorship renewal secured $300 million through 2028.

Unprecedented Viewership Numbers

Despite a mid-season suspension due to border tensions, the IPL bounced back with impressive viewership figures. The opening weekend alone logged 1.37 billion views on JioHotstar, with 340 million concurrent viewers. The final match between RCB and PBKS attracted over 678 million views, making it the most-watched T20 cricket match in history.

Global Expansion on the Horizon

The league is evolving beyond cricket into a comprehensive sports media business. With cricket set to debut at the 2028 LA Olympics and growing international investor interest, the IPL is positioned to play a pivotal role in globalising the sport through longer seasons and deeper monetisation strategies.

Source: Houlihan Lokey brand valuation study, as reported by Mint