The Indian Premier League's cricket value soars to $18.5 billion

According to a report by the investment bank Houlihan Lokey, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is now worth US\$18.5 billion, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru declared the franchise with the highest value. Known as the richest cricket tournament in the world, IPL stands at the forefront in generating revenues for BCCI and was estimated in 2020 to contribute more than US\$11 billion per year to the Indian economy.

According to a report by Houlihan Lokey, the IPL's brand value grew by 13.8% in the past year, now reaching US\$3.9 billion. After winning their first title this year with star player Virat Kohli, Bengaluru became the most valuable team, worth US\$269 million. They moved ahead of Mumbai Indians (US\$242 million) and Chennai Super Kings (US\$235 million).

The report calls IPL a “global phenomenon,” far away from just cricket: record franchise values, record media deals, record brand partnerships. According to Harsh Talikoti of Houlihan Lokey, global appeal and the ability to attract international sponsors and investors put the IPL or one of the world’s top sports properties.

The 2025 finale held in Ahmedabad saw Bengaluru Best Punjab Kings and attracted more than 678 million viewerships.