The bank’s 2026 Brand Valuation Report indicated that the IPL’s business value rose by 11.4% annually to reach $20.6 billion, marking two consecutive years of double-digit growth.
The league’s stand-alone brand value also experienced an increase of 10.3%, reaching $4.3 billion. Since 2023, the IPL has added over $1.1 billion in brand value.
RCB maintained its position as the top IPL franchise, boasting a brand value of $312 million—up 16 percent from $269 million in 2025—and becoming the first cricket team to surpass the $300 million threshold.
The Mumbai Indians held the second spot with a brand value of $264 million, trailed by Kolkata Knight Riders at $245 million and Chennai Super Kings at $244 million.
The study highlighted that significant ownership transactions this year have further enhanced the league’s commercial allure.
RCB was purchased by a consortium including Blackstone, Bolt Ventures, Aditya Birla Group, and Times of India Group, with a reported valuation of $1.78 billion, while Rajasthan Royals was sold for $1.65 billion, setting new industry benchmarks.
The study also emphasized the IPL’s expanding digital presence. Data from official broadcaster JioStar, referenced in the report, indicated that the 2026 season reached 1.06 billion screens, with overall viewership increasing by seven percent year-on-year.
“I always believed the IPL would evolve into one of the largest sporting leagues worldwide. I just didn’t anticipate it would occur so swiftly,” stated Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia, noting his franchise’s valuation growth from $76 million in 2008 to $158 million in 2026.
“Today, seeing institutional investors evaluating franchises and global capital entering the field validates the conviction we held back in 2008,” he added.
Connected TV emerged as the most rapidly growing platform, with a 26% increase in reach, contrasting with an 18.8% decline in linear television ratings.
The digital-driven expansion, along with premium partnerships and media rights, propelled the league’s total revenues beyond $1.8 billion during the season, further solidifying the IPL’s status as one of the fastest-growing sports leagues in the world.
“The IPL has transformed the perception of sport in India. It has created careers, stimulated investment, inspired other leagues, and built sporting brands that resonate with millions,” remarked Wadia.
