Outlook Money
The IPL's Business value increased to $18.5 billion, an annual growth of 12.9 per cent, as per Houlihan Lokey's study. Its brand value increased to $3.9 billion, up 13.8 per cent, due to digital reach, global popularity, and robust sponsorship.
Lucknow Super Giants, led by Rishabh Pant, ranked at 10th place with $122 million. They recorded a 34 per cent increase from last year, showing steady brand growth.
Punjab Kings ranked at ninth place but the highest growth at 39.6 per cent with value of $141 million. Under new captain Shreyas Iyer, the team had a successful season.
Gujarat Titans, led by Shubhman Gill, stood at eighth with $142 million. While the team remained competitive, its branding momentum has slowed compared to its debut season.
The Rajasthan Royals, with a $146 million brand value, ranked in seventh. Despite a mediocre performance, rising stars like Vaibhav Suryavanshi maintained the interest of the audience.
Delhi Capitals finished at sixth with $152 million, remained steady. The young star team had decent engagement, but not effective season.
Sunrisers Hyderabad ranked fifth with $154 million. After a prosperous 2024, there was optimism, but uneven outcomes slowed the growth of their brand.
KKR ranked fourth at $227 million. They entered the season as defending champions, player exits and mixed results affected momentum despite a strong off-field appeal.
Chennai Super Kings fell to third with $235 million in brand value. The performance of this team featuring MS Dhoni was affected by a difficult season and a captaincy change in the middle of a tournament.
With $242 million, the Mumbai Indians placed second. The team having stars like Rohit Sharma, Surya and Hardik maintained its position despite a change in leadership due to its brand equity and reliable performance.
RCB topped the rankings, with a brand worth of $269 million, dethroning CSK as the most valuable franchise. The growth was increased by their first IPL trophy, Virat Kohli's star presence and unwavering fan support.