Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the biggest sports leagues in the world, saw a valuation jump of 28% in one year to go from $8.4 billion to $10.7 billion. IPL has seen its total brand value grow by a staggering 433% since it was launched in 2008. The numbers by world’s leading brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance puts IPL in a decacorn category. A decacorn refers to a business whose valuation is over $10 billion.
As per the organisation’s report, IPL’s return to full-capacity stadiums, increased viewer consumption on diverse devices, huge media partnerships, and renewed confidence among advertisers has strengthened its brand value.
“The IPL brand stands as a guiding light to all other T20 leagues, illustrating how the business model can be successfully scaled up on a global level. Teams are proactively recruiting professionals to handle year-round player management, organize tournaments, and manage sponsor pools. The key to upholding the IPL brand lies in robust governance. The mother ship must remain steadfast and on course, ensuring a continuous commitment to value creation,” said Hugo Hensley, head of sports services, Brand Finance, London.
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Additionally, the report said Mumbai Indians (MI) have maintained their numero uno position as far as IPL franchises are concerned. At $87 million, MI have the highest brand value in the IPL. In terms of brand strength, they are ranked third – behind Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans.
In valuation terms, MI are followed by defending IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at $81 million. CSK have been rated as the ‘strongest IPL brand’, earning AAA- rating with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 81.8 out of 100.
Shah Rukh Khan co-owned Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore follow in third and fourth place at $78.6 million and $69.8 million respectively.
Gujarat Titans, two seasons into their IPL journey and having already won a title, have registered a substantial 38% increase in brand value this year. They’ve gone from eighth in 2022 to fifth in brand valuation.
The report noted the growth in viewership aided by additional platforms helped drive brand value. In its first season as broadcaster, Jio Cinema offered free-to-view access to all mobile users in over 15 regional languages.
