Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai. The Indian Premier League (IPL), the world’s most popular T20 cricket league, has seen its total brand value rise by 13% compared to last year, reaching $12 billion (Rs 1.01 lakh crore), according to a new report by brand valuation company Brand Finance. This marks a significant milestone in the league’s history, as its brand value crossed $10 billion for the first time in 2023, up from $10.7 billion (Rs 90,679 crore) last year. Back in 2009, the league's valuation stood at $2 billion (Rs 16,943 crore). Since its inception in 2008, Brand Finance has been publishing annual reports on IPL’s brand value, highlighting its consistent growth trajectory.

Four Teams Cross $100 Million Brand Value for the First Time

According to the report, four IPL teams—Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)—have surpassed the $100 million (Rs 847 crore) brand value mark for the first time. Among the league’s ten teams, **CSK tops the list** with a brand valuation of Rs 1,033 crore, marking a 52% growth. Mumbai Indians follow closely, with their valuation increasing by 36% to Rs 1,008 crore. RCB stands third with a valuation of Rs 991 crore (up by 67%), while KKR takes the fourth spot at Rs 923 crore (a 38% increase). Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ranks fifth, with the highest growth among all teams, as their brand value soared by 76% to Rs 719 crore.

Mixed Growth Across Other Teams

Other IPL teams also saw growth in brand value, albeit at varying rates. Rajasthan Royals (30%), Delhi Capitals (24%), Punjab Kings (49%), and Lucknow Super Giants (29%) experienced moderate growth. However, Gujarat Titans saw the smallest increase, at just 5%. Notably, Gujarat Titans made their IPL debut in 2022 and became champions in the same season. In 2023, they reached the final but lost to CSK.

Global Comparison and IPL’s Economic Impact

The combined brand value of IPL’s top five teams stands at Rs 4,667 crore ($551 million), which is significantly lower than the top five teams of global football leagues such as Bundesliga ($2.9 billion) or the English Premier League ($6.7 billion). Despite this, IPL has become a blueprint for leagues worldwide due to its effective business model and match organization. Brand Finance highlights IPL’s contribution to India’s economy, generating over 1.25 million jobs and influencing markets in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and Australia.

Defining Brand Value

Brand value encompasses factors such as broadcasting rights, sponsorships, audience reach, player contracts, and advertising. IPL’s total valuation of Rs 1.01 lakh crore indicates the investment required to acquire the league outright.