Royal Challengers Bengaluru Sets New Benchmark in IPL History
In a groundbreaking achievement, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has become the first franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) to surpass a brand valuation of $300 million. This milestone marks a significant year for the team, both on the field and in the business arena. Notably, the overall business value of the IPL has climbed past the $20 billion threshold for the first time, reaching a total of $20.6 billion in 2026.
According to a recent report by Houlihan Lokey, which evaluated the IPL’s financials for 2026, the league’s business value increased by 11.4% compared to the previous year. Its standalone brand value stands at $4.3 billion. Harsh Talikoti, a Director with Houlihan Lokey, emphasized that investor confidence has been a major indicator of the league’s growth.
“The most significant development this year didn’t come from our projections but from the market itself. Both RCB and Rajasthan Royals changed ownership, with RCB valued at $1.78 billion and Rajasthan Royals at $1.65 billion. These new owners are exactly the type of investors we believe the league would attract,” Talikoti noted.
The surge in franchise sales showcases the IPL’s appeal as a lucrative investment option worldwide, appealing to a range of global firms, private equity investors, and business moguls.
Commercial Growth of the IPL
The report details rapid commercial growth for the IPL in recent years. The league’s value jumped from $15.4 billion in 2023 to $20.6 billion in 2026. This year’s total revenue, including income from media rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales, is projected to exceed $1.8 billion.
RCB Tops Brand Value List
For the first time, RCB has claimed the top spots in both brand value and business value rankings, following their victories in the IPL and Women’s Premier League this year. Their brand value surged by 16% to reach $312 million, making them the first IPL franchise to cross the $300 million milestone.
Top IPL Franchises by Brand Value (2026):
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – $312 million
- Mumbai Indians (MI) – $264 million
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – $245 million
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – $244 million
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – $168 million
- Rajasthan Royals (RR) – $161 million
- Punjab Kings (PBKS) – $158 million
- Gujarat Titans (GT) – $157 million
- Delhi Capitals (DC) – $156 million
- Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – $122 million
RCB’s co-owner, Satyan Gajwani, expressed gratitude towards the team’s dedicated fans, stating that their unwavering support has played a vital role in this achievement.
“The intensity and connection of RCB’s fanbase are unmatched, making this a special milestone for us,” Gajwani remarked.
A Bright Future Ahead
The report highlights that the sales of RCB and Rajasthan Royals significantly contributed to the league’s impressive valuation. RCB was acquired for $1.78 billion by a consortium that includes major players like the Aditya Birla Group and Blackstone, while Rajasthan Royals were sold to the Mittal family and CEO Adar Poonawalla for $1.65 billion.
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia believes there is still considerable potential for growth within the league. “I firmly believe the IPL is just getting started,” he expressed.
The IPL’s robust revenue-sharing model, escalating sponsorship income, and increasing global reach continue to attract investors. Expectations are high for the upcoming media rights cycle, set to begin in 2028, with predictions of even greater financial returns as interest in the tournament keeps growing worldwide.
