The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket competition, but a global entertainment powerhouse that commands significant attention and resources from sponsors, players, and fans alike. The 2025 IPL season saw a considerable shift in the brand values of its franchises, with several teams either consolidating their place or making remarkable strides in terms of brand worth.
Among the top-ranking teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) continues to dominate the brand value rankings, holding steady at the number one spot with a valuation of $231 million. Their dominance in the IPL, especially with the leadership legacy of MS Dhoni, has earned them an unwavering fan base and a lucrative sponsor portfolio. CSK’s consistency in playoff appearances and multiple title wins over the years have cemented its reputation as the most successful franchise in IPL history.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), which has always attracted a massive following thanks to its high-profile players like Virat Kohli, ranks second with a brand value of $227 million. The team’s connection with its fans, especially through social media engagement, is a major contributor to its growth. Despite inconsistent performances on the field, RCB’s emotional connection with its fanbase and its vibrant team identity have helped maintain a premium brand value.
However, what stands out in the 2024 brand valuation study is the rise of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in third place, with a value of $216 million. This surge is attributed to the team’s off-field management and the global appeal of their owner, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. KKR’s brand is strengthened not only by its on-field successes but also by strategic marketing, fan engagement, and its roster of big-name players like Andre Russell and Shreyas Iyer.
Mumbai Indians (MI), with a value of $204 million, rounds out the top four. Though their recent on-field performance has been slightly underwhelming, MI’s legacy and their ability to nurture star players like Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah provide a solid foundation for the brand.
On the flip side, the brand values of Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have shown significant growth. RR has risen to fifth place with a valuation of $133 million, thanks to the successful incorporation of young Indian talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal alongside global stars like Jos Buttler. Their innovative marketing strategies and consistent performance on the field have positively impacted their brand value.
One of the more surprising teams in the IPL 2024 brand valuation rankings is Delhi Capitals (DC). Historically known for being at the bottom of the table in terms of brand value, DC has made strides thanks to the return of their star player, Rishabh Pant. Though the team’s on-field performance remains variable, the off-field marketing and leadership overhaul have given them a noticeable boost.