RCB Overtakes CSK to Claim Top Spot as IPL’s Most Valuable Franchise
In a stunning shift in the Indian Premier League (IPL) landscape, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have surged past Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to become the most valuable franchise, boasting a brand value of USD 269 million, according to a recent study by Houlihan Lokey, Inc. This marks a significant 18.5% jump from their USD 227 million valuation last year, propelled by their maiden IPL title win. The IPL itself continues to redefine sports business, with its overall business value climbing 12.9% to USD 18.5 billion and its stand-alone brand value rising 13.8% to USD 3.9 billion.
CSK, long a dominant force, slipped to third place with a brand value of USD 235 million, a marginal increase from USD 231 million, hampered by a lackluster season that saw them finish at the bottom. Mumbai Indians (MI) seized the second spot, climbing from fourth with a valuation of USD 242 million, up from USD 204 million in 2024. Punjab Kings (PBKS) stole the spotlight with the highest year-on-year growth of 39.6%, reaching USD 141 million, largely due to their impressive run as runners-up under new captain Shreyas Iyer. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) also made waves, recording a 34% increase to USD 122 million, though they rank tenth.
The IPL’s financial ascent reflects its growing global appeal, with franchise valuations soaring, media rights deals hitting record highs, and brand partnerships spanning diverse sectors, as noted by Harsh Talikoti, director at Houlihan Lokey. Other notable rankings include Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at fourth with USD 222 million, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at fifth with USD 154 million, Delhi Capitals (DC) at sixth with USD 152 million, Rajasthan Royals (RR) at seventh with USD 146 million, and Gujarat Titans (GT) at eighth with USD 142 million.
IPL Franchise Valuation Rankings (2025)
| Rank | Team | Brand Value (USD) |
| 1 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) | 269M |
| 2 | Mumbai Indians (MI) | 242M |
| 3 | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | 235M |
| 4 | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | 222M |
| 5 | SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) | 154M |
| 6 | Delhi Capitals (DC) | 152M |
| 7 | Rajasthan Royals (RR) | 146M |
| 8 | Gujarat Titans (GT) | 142M |
| 9 | Punjab Kings (PBKS) | 141M |
| 10 | Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | 122M |
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