IPL’s ecosystem value dropped 20% in 2025: Brand Finance

After a stellar year last year, where four teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL)–Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)–crossed the $100 million brand value milestone for the first time, the league witnessed a decline of 20% in its ecosystem value.

According to an IPL 2025 report by Brand Finance, IPL’s ecosystem value dropped from $12 billion in 2024 to $9.6 billion this year, amidst geopolitical tensions in the region and uncertainty caused by the mega-auction and subsequent team reshuffles. The last time the league saw a drop in brand value was in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting bio-bubbles.  

Despite this, the IPL achieved a groundbreaking online broadcasting record, with over 384.6 billion minutes of watch time in the 2025 season, highlighting the league’s positive evolution in engagement and accessibility.

MI emerged as the most valuable team brand at $108 million and the third strongest with an 85/100 Brand Strength Index (BSI) score. Last year, CSK reigned supreme with $122 million brand value.

Brand Finance noted that CSK had slipped down the most valuable ranks, ranking third due to uncertainties around team composition, leadership clarity, and player combinations throughout the season. However, its on-field struggles in the IPL 2025 season have not dented the brand’s strength as the franchise remains the strongest in the league for three years in a row, with a BSI score of 92.6/100, thanks to its passionate fan base, digital engagements and loyal sponsors.

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) championship win after an 18-year drought helped it become the second most valuable brand at $105 million. The team also climbed to second place in the brand strength rankings with a BSI score of 89.5/100, driven by the support of an outstanding fan base, innovative engagement initiatives, and a strong digital presence.