IPL Business Value Crosses $20.6 Billion in 2026
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has strengthened its position as the world’s most valuable Twenty20 cricket competition, with its overall business value rising more than 11% to $20.6 billion in 2026, according to the latest Houlihan Lokey IPL Brand Valuation Study. Since its launch in 2008, the tournament has built a powerful commercial ecosystem through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and growing franchise investments.
The report highlighted that recent ownership changes have further boosted investor confidence in the league. Earlier this year, a consortium led by Blackstone, Bolt Ventures, Aditya Birla Group, and Times of India Group agreed to acquire the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise for a record $1.78 billion, while the Mittal family and Adar Poonawalla announced the purchase of the Rajasthan Royals for $1.65 billion. These deals reflect the rising premium attached to established IPL teams.
Houlihan Lokey noted that the IPL recorded its second consecutive year of double-digit business value growth, supported by increasing private capital participation and a rapidly expanding global fan base. The league’s standalone brand value climbed 10.3% to $4.3 billion, with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru retaining their position as the IPL’s most valuable franchise, boasting a brand value of $312 million.
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