The Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached new heights in 2025, with its total business value jumping to $18.5 billion. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has emerged as the most valuable IPL franchise, overtaking Chennai Super Kings (CSK). According to a recent study by Houlihan Lokey, RCB’s brand value soared to $269 million, up from $227 million in 2024, after their first-ever IPL championship win. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians (MI) took second place with a brand value of $242 million, while CSK dropped to third at $128 million due to a poor season.
RCB’s historic IPL win in 2025 was a game-changer. Their brand value increased by 18.5%, making them the most valuable IPL franchise. The team’s victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the final on June 3 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, boosted their popularity. Additionally, RCB’s strong social media presence and sponsorship deals, like their $245 million agreement with Qatar Airways, played a big role. As a result, RCB dethroned CSK, ending the latter’s long-standing dominance as the most valuable IPL franchise.
Mumbai Indians also saw growth in 2025, moving to second place with a brand value of $242 million. Despite not winning the title, MI’s consistent performance and strong sponsorships kept them among the top teams. Moreover, their large fan base and partnerships with brands like Samsung and Jio helped maintain their status as a leading IPL franchise. This shift further highlights how RCB dethroned CSK, with MI closing the gap.
RCB players
Chennai Super Kings, a five-time IPL champion, faced a tough 2025 season, finishing at the bottom of the table. Consequently, their brand value grew by only 1.7%, reaching $128 million. This poor performance caused CSK to lose the top spot, allowing RCB to dethrone CSK as the most valuable IPL franchise. However, CSK’s loyal fan base and partnerships with brands like TVS Eurogrip keep them in the top three.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) made headlines as the fastest-growing IPL franchise in 2025. Their brand value jumped 39.6% to $141 million after reaching the final. Additionally, PBKS’s bold auction strategy and viral digital campaigns boosted their popularity. For instance, their focus on a media-sport brand model, including ownership of Saint Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premier League, helped them grow. This success underscores the IPL’s competitive landscape, where RCB dethroned CSK.
The IPL’s overall value soared to $18.5 billion in 2025, a 12.9% increase from last year. The league’s standalone brand value also rose by 13.8% to $3.9 billion. Furthermore, record-breaking viewership fueled this growth. The IPL 2025 final between RCB and PBKS attracted 678 million views, making it the most-watched T20 match ever. Sponsorship deals, like Tata’s $300 million title sponsorship through 2028, also strengthened the IPL’s position as a top global sports league.
RCB dethroned CSK as the most valuable IPL franchise in 2025, with a brand value of $269 million. Their maiden IPL title, strong sponsorships, and digital presence drove this milestone. Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings also saw significant growth, while CSK slipped due to a weak season. The IPL’s $18.5 billion valuation cements its status as a global sports giant, with RCB leading the charge.
