The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved far beyond just a sporting event as its valuations have continually been on the rise, since its inception. According to a report by Houlihan Lokey, an independent global investment bank, IPL reached a staggering valuation of $16.4 billion (or nearly Rs 1.3 lakh crore) this season.
The sporting event's valuation has surged by 6.5 per cent compared to the previous season, reaching $15.4 billion.
IPL's brand value increased by 6.3 per cent to reach $3.4 billion from $3.2 billion in 2023. This boost was largely owing to the major new five-year title sponsorship deal with Tata Group, valued at about $300 million (Rs 2,500 crore).
This deal represented a nearly 50 per cent increase over the previous agreement of Rs 335 crore per season.
"This significant investment, coupled with last year’s massive media rights auction, underscores the IPL’s status as a pivotal platform for esteemed brands seeking to enhance their value," the report said.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been leading as the most valuable IPL franchise, with a brand value of $231 million. The team has made it to the playoffs in 12 out of their 15 seasons. Notably, Former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been pivotal to CSK's success, not only as a player but also as the face of the franchise.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the team that continues to make heightened buzz on social media holds a brand value of $227 million.
In Season 17, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged as champions of the league after defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the finals. As per the report, the team's brand value stands at around $216 million.
The team that has been involved in contentious controversies over the captaincy, Mumbai Indians, holds a brand value of $204 million. "MI’s brand value was impacted due to the negativity surrounding the team after a change in captaincy and its on-field performances; however, the long-term goodwill associated with the brand helped to negate the impact," the report said.
Rajasthan Royals (RR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Delhi Capitals (DC) are all in a very tight range in terms of their brand values.
Gujarat Titans ranked eighth with a brand value of $124.0 million. Punjab Kings (PK) followed with a brand value of $101.0 million, and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) rounded out the group with a brand value of $91.0 million.
